The transformation of land use and land cover is driven by a range of different factors and mechanisms. Climate, technology and economics are key determinants of land-use change at different spatial and temporal scales. Moreover, the use of land in both natural and man-made environments is influenced by the pressures associated with development. The variety of forces that drive change in the use of land is extensive and complex, including spatial planning policies designed at local, regional, national and supranational levels. Given this complexity and in order to understand the mechanisms of change and the impact of policies, researchers and practitioners have turned their attention to formulating, calibrating and testing models that simulate land-use dynamics. These land-use change models help us to understand the characteristics and interdependencies of the components that constitute spatial systems. Moreover, when utilized in a predictive capacity, they provide valuable insights into possible land-use configurations in the future.
This course offers a cross-sectional overview of current research progress in the field of land-use modelling. The contributions that are included in the chapters of the course range from methodology and model calibration to the actual application of systems and studies of policy implementation and evaluation. The course is an indispensable guide for students interested in state-of-the-art land-use modelling, its background and its application. Additional exercises and assignments help students to critically assess the potential of these instruments.