Land change processes which are scale dependent may have different impacts at different localities of a given region. Restrictions and opportunities imposed by biophysical and socio-economic conditions, such as local policies and accessibility, may induce distinct land use trajectories at the micro scale. These local land use trajectories may on their turn indirectly affect other localities, as local processes interact at different scales. Such intraregional interactions cannot be captured by studies at a single scale, calling for multiscale and multilocality studies. This work presents a methodology for building computational models that support dynamic linking of multiple scales. We propose a conceptual framework to couple models with different scales and localities, combining diverse approaches. We develop a case study, by coupling of two deforestation models in the Brazilian Amazonia. We explore the top-down influence of two macro regional scenarios (cells of 25 x 25 km2) on a specific site modelled in more detail (cells of 1 x 1 km2). We also explore feedback from alternative local law enforcement policies to the regional scale model, looking for intraregional effects. Results show the potential of our approach in studies in which intraregional, bottom-up and top-down interactions need to be understood.

Session:  LCLUC and Human Dimensions - Land-use/land-cover change models and scenarios at multiple scales for Amazonia.

Presentation Type:  Oral