Development of a value-based integrated landscape planning model for the conservation of rural areas; The case of Malatya

The distinctive character of rural areas is the result of the long-term interaction between the natural environment and human activity. Given the pivotal role that rural areas play in food and raw material production, as well as in the maintenance of ecological balance, natural resources, and biocultural diversity, the planning and management of these areas has become a matter of increasing importance in recent years. Nevertheless, rural areas are confronted with increasingly complex challenges, particularly in the domain of planning. Rural areas that have reached a point of intractability are abandoned and devalued. In recent years, the influence of sustainability and development discourses in developed countries has led to a notable increase in interest in rural areas, with rural planning practices and the restructuring of rural areas now occupying a prominent position on the policy agenda. In the implementation of planning practices, attention is drawn to the differences between landscape sustainability and development approaches, as well as the integration of rural landscape values into planning. The integration of landscape values into planning is feasible through the implementation of integrated landscape approaches that prioritize a holistic consideration of the social, economic, and ecological dimensions. In light of the integrated landscape planning approach, this thesis puts forth a conceptual value-based integrated rural landscape planning model founded upon an understanding of the local context and values. The model framework is based on a synthesis of findings from field studies and various research techniques. The field analysis process was conducted in the rural area of Malatya Province. The rural area was classified into three categories: near rural, middle rural, and far rural. The forgiven and assigned values in each region, as well as the determining factors for each category of values, were identified. The value-problem interaction matrices provided insight into the complex functioning of rural landscapes in Malatya. It is expected that the value-based integrated landscape planning model developed within the scope of the thesis will serve as a reference for our country and other countries that have not yet developed or are attempting to develop a rural landscape planning approach.