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Exploratory bibliometrics: The scientometric analysis and visualization of land suitability

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  • Ahadi, Leila
  • Kalantari, Mohsen

Abstract

Land suitability (LS) has become an increasingly prominent topic in academic research due to its critical role in sustainable land use and spatial planning. This study presents a comprehensive scientometric (bibliometric) analysis of LS literature with five main objectives: (i) identifying the most influential journals, documents, and authors; (ii) examining the temporal distribution and growth of LS publications; (iii) identifying leading countries by research productivity; (iv) exploring methodological trends (e.g., GIS-based MCDM, AHP, ANP) and conceptual frameworks; and (v) mapping collaborative networks and thematic evolution. A total of 1387 documents published up to 2024 were retrieved from the Scopus database and analyzed using VOSviewer software. The results indicate that China, Indonesia, Iran, the United States, India, and Turkey are the leading contributors to LS research. The field is highly interdisciplinary and demonstrates increasing international collaboration. By employing advanced bibliometric visualization techniques, this study offers novel insights into the development of LS research and emerging themes, which can inform future sustainability-oriented land assessment. These findings provide valuable guidance for researchers and policymakers engaged in sustainable land management.

Suggested Citation

  • Ahadi, Leila & Kalantari, Mohsen, 2026. "Exploratory bibliometrics: The scientometric analysis and visualization of land suitability," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 168(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:lauspo:v:168:y:2026:i:c:s0264837726001675
    DOI: 10.1016/j.landusepol.2026.108083
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    References listed on IDEAS

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