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Land Use Change in the Russian Far East and Its Driving Factors

Author

Listed:
  • Cong Wang

    (Joint International Research Laboratory of Catastrophe Simulation and Systemic Risk Governance, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China
    School of National Safety and Emergency Management, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China)

  • Xiaohan Zhang

    (Joint International Research Laboratory of Catastrophe Simulation and Systemic Risk Governance, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China
    School of National Safety and Emergency Management, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China)

  • Liwei Liu

    (Joint International Research Laboratory of Catastrophe Simulation and Systemic Risk Governance, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China
    School of National Safety and Emergency Management, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China)

Abstract

This study systematically analyzes land use changes in the Russian Far East from 2000 to 2020, identifying key transformations and their driving factors. Using multi-temporal remote sensing images combined with land use dynamics analysis, transition matrices, and gray relational analysis, this research comprehensively evaluates land use evolution and its influencing factors. The purpose of this study is to elucidate how land use patterns shift under the influence of natural conditions, demographic trends, and cross-border cooperation with a particular emphasis on the border areas adjacent to northeast China. The findings reveal that during the observed period, the Far East underwent substantial expanses in arable land and built-up areas, while forest areas underwent a decline. Grassland areas demonstrated relative stability, water bodies continued to decrease, and unused land exhibited fluctuating trends, initially increasing and then decreasing. In the three border regions (Amur Oblast, the Jewish Autonomous Region, and Primorsky Krai), these transformations were more pronounced compared to the Far East overall, reflecting intensified agricultural development and urban growth in these strategic zones. Gray relational analysis shows that climate change and local population growth are the principal drivers of land use change, while regional trade—particularly China–Russia trade in industrial raw materials, agriculture, and food exports—plays a moderate role. The evolving land use patterns in the Far East carry significant implications for resource acquisition, ecological security, and regional cooperation. The study underscores the necessity of formulating scientifically sound land management policies to balance economic development with ecological protection, thus fostering sustainable development and regional stability.

Suggested Citation

  • Cong Wang & Xiaohan Zhang & Liwei Liu, 2025. "Land Use Change in the Russian Far East and Its Driving Factors," Land, MDPI, vol. 14(4), pages 1-18, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:14:y:2025:i:4:p:804-:d:1630647
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Hualou Long & Yingnan Zhang & Li Ma & Shuangshuang Tu, 2021. "Land Use Transitions: Progress, Challenges and Prospects," Land, MDPI, vol. 10(9), pages 1-20, August.
    2. Andrew Allan & Ali Soltani & Mohammad Hamed Abdi & Melika Zarei, 2022. "Driving Forces behind Land Use and Land Cover Change: A Systematic and Bibliometric Review," Land, MDPI, vol. 11(8), pages 1-20, August.
    3. Charles A. Ogunbode & Rouven Doran & Gisela Böhm, 2020. "Exposure to the IPCC special report on 1.5 °C global warming is linked to perceived threat and increased concern about climate change," Climatic Change, Springer, vol. 158(3), pages 361-375, February.
    4. Yu, Chenyang & Moslehpour, Massoud & Tran, Trung Kien & Trung, Lam Minh & Ou, Jenho Peter & Tien, Nguyen Hoang, 2023. "Impact of non-renewable energy and natural resources on economic recovery: Empirical evidence from selected developing economies," Resources Policy, Elsevier, vol. 80(C).
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