Evaluation of Land Use Optimization Opportunities in Latvia in the Context of Climate Policy

Project description

This research develops a methodological framework (detailed in the interim reports) that enables the simultaneous evaluation of land use impacts on various land-use-related objectives. Additionally, it provides a framework for cross-comparison between the agriculture and forestry sectors.

Spatial micro-level data from multiple information sources is aggregated, systematized, and integrated, resulting in the most detailed land use database for agricultural and forest land in Latvia. This database comprises 9.8 million agricultural land polygons and 2.8 million forest land polygons, covering all agricultural and forested areas in the country.

To assess the performance of different land use patterns, a land use model has been developed. This model allows for the evaluation and projection of socio-economic impacts, effects on bird habitat quality, and changes in GHG emissions and CO2 sequestration in the agricultural and LULUCF sectors.

The research provides an in-depth analysis of current land use, assesses the supply and demand for productive land, and develops an indicator system for various land use functions. Different land use scenarios are analyzed, and based on the findings, conceptual proposals are presented to promote more efficient and sustainable use of agricultural and forest land.