Landscape character assessment and sustainable planning strategies for coastal lagoons in Türkiye: A case study approach

Abstract

Coastal lagoons, straddling the interface between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, represent critical biodiversity hotspots and are significant for ecological stability and socio- economic sustenance. This study investigates the ecological and cultural landscape values of selected coastal lagoons in Türkiye—Balık, Büyükçekmece, Köyceğiz, and Paradeniz Lagoons— employing the Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) methodology. Positioned uniquely along various seas (Black Sea, Marmara Sea, Aegean Sea, and Mediterranean Sea), these lagoons undergo dynamic environmental and anthropogenic pressures. Türkiye’s substantial legislative framework aimed at coastal conservation, including national laws and international conventions, provides a backdrop against which the effectiveness and implementation of environmental protections are evaluated. The research integrates Geographical Information Systems (GIS) mapping and administrative data analysis to illuminate the geographical, legal, and ecological nuances influencing lagoon management. This study’s multi-dimensional approach reveals significant disparities in protective measures and planning, underscoring the need for refined, location- specific environmental management strategies. By highlighting the interaction between human activities and natural settings, the research advocates for a balanced approach to coastal lagoon usage and conservation, aiming to enhance ecological integrity while accommodating socioeconomic realities. The findings call for a comprehensive, integrated management strategy that synergizes LCA with robust legal and planning frameworks to ensure the sustainable future of these vital ecological zones.