Land-use evolution in an island urban setting: A three-decade analysis of Machico, Madeira (1990–2018)

• DOI: 10.24294/jipd10185
• Publication Date: 2025-02-18T08:59:16Z
• Authors: Sérgio Lousada; José Manuel Naran...; Mário Fernandes; Mauro Raposo; Raul Alves; Dainora Jankauskienė
• Keywords: territorial management; geographic information systems (GIS); CORINE land cover (CLC); land use and occupancy; urban planning

The sustainable development of Madeira Island necessitates the implementation more precise and targeted planning strategies to address its regional challenges. Given urgency this issue within context sustainability, approaches must be grounded in reinforced by a comprehensive array thematic studies fully grasp complexities involved. This research leverages Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analyze land use occupancy patterns their evolution municipality Machico on Island. study provides nuanced perspective urban structure’s stagnation region, while concurrently highlighting dynamic shifts agricultural practices. Furthermore, it elucidates transformation predominant native vegetation from 1990 2018. Notably, underscores alarming decline due anthropogenic activities, emphasizing need for rigorous monitoring authorities safeguard preserve these valuable landscapes, habitats, ecosystems.