Conflicts of the Land Use and Ecosystem Services in the Riverine Landscape of the Little Danube

Abstract

Ecosystem benefits, now known as ecosystem services (ESs), confront continuous threats from human activities and lack adequate protection, often suffering degradation and destruction despite their inherent advantages. This paper aims to introduce the geosystem approach as an exact scientific basis for assessing ESs. By emphasizing the interconnectedness of abiotic and biotic components within ecosystems, this method involves in-depth research across landscape dimensions and socioeconomic factors influencing the utilization of ecosystem services (ESs). It highlights a deep understanding of their connections and interactions. The key operational units, termed landscape–ecological complexes or geoecological complexes, result from fundamental research. Their interpretation as potentially useful for the chosen ESs is already an applied procedure. ES assessment employs two approaches: participatory and biophysical assessments. The outcomes contribute to the development of management measures for preserving or enhancing ESs in the broader study area. Methodological procedures were tested in the Little Danube model area, a unique lowland stream in Central Europe’s Rye Island and a significant drinking water reservoir. The assessment results provide a foundation, supporting arguments, and criteria for ecologically appropriate landscape planning, as well as the sustainable management, utilization, and conservation of natural resources.