Land Use
Land use investigates the human use and modification of natural environments, whether for agricultural, technological, industrial, residential, or other uses. The pattern of land use is often influenced by various physical and cultural controls.
Understanding the pattern of land use change, and the reasons for these changes is critical for geographers and earth scientists. As global populations grow, so too does the demand for natural resources for infrastructure development to support the human population. Major land cover changes include:
- Deforestation
- Urban sprawl
- Extension of impervious surface areas
- Soil erosion
- Soil degradation and salinization
- Desertification
These changes result in modification of critical ecosystems, and environmental changes that impact our access to resources, and ultimately our own health and safety.