An integrative hazard-ecology-perception framework for cultural landscape planning

A novel framework, Hazard-Ecology-Perception Landscape Planning (HEPLP), has been developed to address the growing vulnerability of cultural landscapes to climate change and urbanization. This integrative approach combines geographical hazards, ecological sensitivity, and heritage value perceptions—both expert and public—to guide sustainable conservation strategies. Applied to Chengde Mountain Resort, HEPLP identified nine distinct landscape clusters through GIS-based hazard and ecology mapping alongside large language model analysis of heritage perception. The framework reveals critical trade-offs between ecological sensitivity and heritage value, offering spatially explicit guidance for balancing conservation priorities. Unlike previous models that focus on single or dual dimensions, HEPLP provides a holistic tool for navigating environmental and social challenges in cultural landscape management.

Lian, J., Nijhuis, S., Shan, X., & Bracken, G. (2026). An integrative hazard-ecology-perception framework for cultural landscape planning. Ecological Indicators, 183, 114681. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2026.114681