The Effect of Using a Geopedological Approach in Determining Land Quality Indicators, Land Degradation, and Development (Case Study: Caspian Sea Coast)

Abstract

This study addresses the escalating global concern surrounding land degradation (LD) and its far-reaching implications on water and nutrient availability, as well as on human health and well-being. Focused on the southeastern Caspian Sea region, this research employs a novel remote sensing geo-pedological methodology to comprehensively assess soil and land quality dynamics, particularly influenced by salts, and investigates the intricate relationship between LD and soil development. The study area, marked by a susceptibility to seawater level fluctuations and diverse landforms (lagoons, barriers, and coastal plains) offers a unique opportunity for geopedologic analysis. Utilizing particle size distribution data, six distinct landforms are identified, providing insights into the region’s complex sedimentary history. A soil quality assessment is conducted remotely through the calculation of two indexes—the Integrated Quality Index (IQI) and the Nemoro Quality Index (NQI)—employing both Total Data Set (TDS) and Minimum Data Set (MDS) methodologies. The investigation highlights the role of soluble salts in shaping soil quality, thereby influencing LD and development dynamics. The differentiation of landforms significantly enhances classification accuracy, providing a more nuanced understanding of the multifaceted factors governing LD. The study’s implications extend beyond the southeastern Caspian Sea region, and demonstrate that the potential for incorporating a geopedologic approach when assessing soil and land quality dynamics in arid regions globally. Our analytic approach can inform policymakers and land managers when making decisions to combat LD and foster sustainable land development. This research also contributes towards advancing knowledge in geopedology by providing a robust foundation for future studies aimed at enhancing land management practices in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.