LDN DSS
Regional Land Degradation Neutrality Decision Support System in Europe and Central Asia
Description
The Regional Land Degradation Neutrality Decision Support System (LDN DSS) is a web-based map-powered app developed by the FAO Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia that presents information on land degradation, land productivity, biodiversity, protected areas and topography, thereby helping identify intervention and improvement opportunities, and tracking progress and changes in selected elements.
Technology
The LDN DSS is based on the Google Earth Engine (GEE) application and is freely accessible online. The tool allows users to select a particular area of interest (e.g. a water catchment area) or geographic area to obtain summary statistics, charts and tables integrated with the available data. The systems makes it possible to search for and identify areas that meet certain criteria (Multi-Criteria Analysis toolbox) or that are undergoing landcover transitions. The system has three main panels: (1) The Layer and Tool panel, where users engage in most interactions, (2) the Map view panel, where cartographic responses are shown; and (3) the Statistic and Chart panel, where information is updated according to the user choices. All charts, figures and tables can be downloaded together with their data, including factsheets for each country. The Layer and Tool panel features two tools: The Multi-Criteria analysis tool allows different layers to be combined, and provides statistics on the combination of three main indicators: Land cover, Soil Organic Carbon and Land productivity dynamics; while the Land Cover Transition Analysis tool allows users to compare changes in land cover, grain and losses in different years.
Target
The system provides decision-makers in the public sector with an opportunity to access maps and carry out land cover analysis, which can be used for policy-making purposes, e.g. to support conservation measures, to advocate for sustainable land management practices, etc. Furthermore, academia and research institutions can use the app to track degradation and research opportunities for regenerative practices.
Business model
The app was developed by the FAO. No registration is required to access the information.
Impact
The system facilitates the monitoring and evaluation of land degradation at different spatial scales, providing stakeholders with opportunities to optimize and adapt their land management efforts. It also allows the effective integration of different types and sources of information, supporting the preparation of reports for various purposes. Progressing towards land degradation neutrality can contribute to the achievement of multiple Sustainable Development Goals, including those related to climate change mitigation and adaptation, biodiversity conservation, food and water security, disaster risk reduction and poverty reduction.
Four Betters
Better environment
