The The Development in the Area of the Anthropogenic Landscape and Its Components in Klaipėda County

Abstract

In recent decades, with the intensification of human activities and accompanying urbanization, research on landscape change, with a focus on the balance between urbanized and natural areas, has become increasingly relevant.
The aim of this article is to analyze the anthropogenic landscape of Klaipėda County and its municipalities from 2011 to 2024. In preparing the article, the following research methods were employed: literature review, assessment of the current situation, grouping, comparison, analytical and statistical analysis, logical analysis, and graphical methods.
The analysis showed that the anthropogenic landscape of Klaipėda County increased by 9,782.82 hectares or 38.05 percent. In 2011, the anthropogenic landscape in Klaipėda County accounted for 4.94%, while in 2024, it accounted for 6.80%.
After analyzing the changes in the areas of landscape components in Klaipėda County, it was determined that the area of built-up land increased by 10,704.50 hectares or 79.42% over a 13-year period. During the same period, road areas decreased by 1,340.81 hectares or 13.32%. At the same time, the area of degraded land increased by 419.20 hectares or 19.35%.
The study shows that rapid urbanization is occurring in Klaipėda County, making it essential to implement environmental protection measures to prevent the degradation of the natural landscape and its components.