Integrating landscape assessment methods to the environmental impact assessment process

The aim of this study is to propose an updated and more consistent method based on landscape character analysis and landscape protection criteria instead of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, which has a significant place in spatial planning legislation. For this purpose, four different activities selected which represent the sectors subject to EIA legislation, and landscape value analyze carried out according to the proposed method. An exemplary methodology is presented by using essential criteria for determining landscape value such as topography, land use, vegetation, and geological structure as components of the basic landscape, and rarity, landscape diversity, naturalness, regeneration time, and carbon sequestration capacity. The landscape units determined in each selected activity area classified on the synthesis map according to the obtained landscape value points, and the value of the entire landscape in the activity area and its surroundings. According to the average scores, it was seen that the most important criterion that positively affects the landscape value among the five criteria is landscape diversity. By using this proposed method, it will be possible to reach a more detailed, consistent, and objective evaluation based on quantitative databases that highlight the ecological characteristics of the landscape in determining landscape values. Although it seems more time-consuming and detailed than the landscape assessment applied in the current EIA procedure, the fact that the data required for the proposed landscape value calculation can obtained from existing sources such as the forest management plan increases the applicability of the method. Thus, it will be possible to protect the landscape value more effectively in line with the objectives of the European Landscape Convention in applications carried out within the scope of important legislation such as the EIA process.