Wildfire ecological risk analysis at meso-scale using medium-resolution data in protected area: a case study of Lovćen National Park, Montenegro

Montenegro, like other Mediterranean countries, faces increasing wildfire risk in protected areas. In Lovćen National Park, limited wildfire prevention and management contribute to heightened ecological risk. This study focuses on evaluating ecological wildfire risk through a spatially explicit approach that prioritizes the protection of natural habitats and ecological values. It applies medium-resolution data at the meso-scale to ensure an appropriate balance between spatial coverage and accuracy. The methodology integrates three core components: susceptibility, hazard, and ecological vulnerability into a unified framework for ecological wildfire risk assessment. Susceptibility is modeled using a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (GIS-MCDA) approach, with standardized input criteria including, fuel type, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), the Normalized Difference Moisture Index (NDMI), slope, and distance from anthropogenic features. Hazard is classified using a 3 × 3 matrix that combines susceptibility and fuel-based fire intensity. Ecological vulnerability is assessed through habitat representativeness, aligned with the EU Habitats Directive. The final ecological risk is mapped using a 4 × 4 matrix that integrates hazard levels with habitat vulnerability. The results indicate that 25.65 % of Lovćen National Park is under low ecological risk, 41.82 % falls within the moderate risk category, 23.25 % is classified as high risk, and 9.28 % of the area is under very high ecological risk. The findings emphasize the importance of targeted wildfire prevention in protected areas and support the use of scalable, resolution-sensitive approaches for ecological risk assessment and nature conservation planning

Quantitative Assessment as an Innovative Tool for Geoheritage Management in the Golija Nature Park

Golija Nature Park was selected for this case study due to its (geo) diversity and unique characteristics in terms of protection and management. Ten representative geosites, chosen based on various parameters, were analyzed. Quantification was performed using objective and multi-criteria parameters, including geological, geomorphological, ecological, cultural, aesthetic, and economic factors. The quantification results are more than just numerical data; they highlight the value of each geosite and provide insights into their potential uses. The evaluation of three indices (Vedu, Vtour, Vprot) identified geosites with high educational and tourist value and highlighted those requiring increased protection. This study, with its applied methodology, serves as a valuable tool by emphasizing and quantifying the priorities necessary for decision-making. It also lays the groundwork for future research aimed at effective geoheritage management in areas with or without legal protection. The final results (both quantitative and qualitative, presented graphically and in tables) can contribute directly or indirectly to achieving sustainable development goals and support local and regional development

Quantifying Torrential Watershed Behavior over Time: A Synergistic Approach Using Classical and Modern Techniques

This study investigates temporal and spatial variation in torrential flood hazards and sediment dynamics in two ungauged watersheds in southeastern Serbia from 1991 to 2023. By integrating classical hydrological models with modern geospatial and photogrammetric techniques, watershed responses to environmental and anthropogenic changes are quantified. Torrential flood potential was estimated and peak discharges were calculated using both the rational and SCS-Unit hydrograph methods, while sediment transport was assessed through Gavrilović’s erosion potential model and a modified Poljakov model. A key innovation is the use of UAV-based and close-range photogrammetry for 3D grain-size analysis, marking the first such application in Serbia. The mean torrential flood potential decreased by 4.4% in the Petrova Watershed and 4.2% in the Rasnička Watershed. Specific peak discharges for a 100-year return period declined from 1.62 to 1.07 m3·s−1·km−2 in Petrova and from 1.60 to 1.34 m3·s−1·km−2 in Rasnička. Sediment transport during a 1% probability flood was reduced from 4.97 to 2.53 m3·s−1 in Petrova and from 13.87 to 9.48 m3·s−1 in Rasnička. Grain-size analyses revealed immobile coarse bedload in the Petrova and active sediment transport in the Rasnička River, where D50 and D90 decreased between 2023 and 2024. The findings highlight the effectiveness of a synergistic methodological approach for analyzing complex watershed processes in data-scarce regions. The study provides a replicable model for flood hazard assessment and erosion control planning in similar mountainous environments undergoing socio-environmental transitions

Urban-industrial impacts on river network stability in South-East Serbia: A GIS and regression based study

Rapid urbanization and industrial expansion in southeastern Serbia have progressively reshaped river network structure and hydrological stability, particularly within valley-confined basins. This study investigates long-term anthropogenic impacts on the Nišava District by quantifying spatial and temporal changes in river network characteristics between 1983 and 2023 and projecting future trajectories to 2050. Multi-temporal geospatial datasets, including historical topographic maps, Sentinel-2 imagery, SRTM digital elevation models, census data, and hydrological records, were integrated within a GIS-based analytical framework. Drainage density, tributary permanence, and river network connectivity were assessed using terrain-based hydrological modeling, Kernel Density Estimation, zonal statistics, and supervised machine-learning classification. The results reveal a marked decline in hydrological integrity, with perennial tributaries reduced by 10.8 % and drainage density decreasing by 8.3 over the study period. These changes are strongly concentrated along urban-industrial corridors, where >70 % of industrial facilities are located within 2 km of major watercourses, intensifying runoff, pollution exposure, and channel modification. Predictive modeling indicates a further 8–10 % decline in drainage density by 2050 under continued corridor-driven development, accompanied by reduced groundwater recharge potential and ecological resilience. The findings demonstrate that urban-industrial clustering acts as a dominant driver of river network simplification and hydrological vulnerability in valley dominated basins. By combining retrospective analysis with forward-looking scenarios, this study provides a transferable GIS-based framework for assessing human-induced fluvial degradation and supports evidence-based spatial planning, river-basin management, and sustainable territorial development in rapidly transforming regions

Geospatial Assessment of Agricultural Sustainability Using Multi-Criteria Analysis: A Case Study of the Grocka Municipality, Serbia

Agricultural land represents a fundamental production resource and one of the key factors of ecological and economic stability in rural and peri-urban areas. In the municipality of Grocka, the impacts of urbanization, demographic decline, and changes in the agrarian production structure have led to spatial degradation and reduced economic sustainability. To assess the current state and potential of agriculture at the settlement level, a multi-criteria analysis (MCA) integrated with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) was applied. The analysis encompassed demographic, production, environmental, and spatial indicators, normalized using the min–max scaling method and aggregated through a weighted sum. Criteria weights were defined based on a combination of literature review and expert judgment. The results reveal spatial variations in the level of sustainability and enable the identification of priority zones for agro-economic improvement, areas of moderate stability, and spaces suitable for developing sustainable agricultural models. Sensitivity testing (±20% variation in weights) confirmed the robustness of the results. The identified zones and proposed measures aim to revitalize degraded areas, preserve permanent crops, and strengthen production and institutional capacities. The applied methodological framework can serve as a tool for planning and policymaking in sustainable agricultural development, particularly in peri-urban contexts

Mitigating the effects of facility decline at the local level through spatial planning: A case study of the Municipality of Knjaževac, Serbia

The main challenge for spatial entities facing irreversible adverse development processes (e.g., depopulation, economic decline, reduced accessibility to services) is managing the consequences through a planned approach rather than passive observation. Public services, such as healthcare, education, and culture, are essential for maintaining quality of life and represent a fundamental human right. In many areas, facility closures are inevitable, and planning is necessary to mitigate their negative impact on the local population. Our research examines how to approach this issue through the lens of the Serbian national legal and planning framework, using the spatial plan of a local self-government unit as a foundation for defining spatial development policies. We explore the potential of mathematical models for optimising spatial solutions to minimise the negative effects of public service facility closures. Focusing on the network of primary healthcare facilities, the results for the selected research area show that it is possible to maintain accessibility through spatial reorganization, even with the closure of one-third of the facilities. In contrast, alternative solutions would yield less favourable outcomes, highlighting the importance of planned intervention in ensuring equitable access to essential services

Project-Based Learning in Geography and Its Impact on Developing Students’ Values, Attitudes and Pro-Environmental Behavior

Contemporary environmental challenges necessitate the adoption of active learning meth- ods within educational frameworks, particularly those that foster the development of environmental awareness among young people. The 2030 Agenda underscores the im- portance of project-based learning as a strategy for building the competencies required to achieve sustainable development goals. In this context, the attitudes and behavior of young people towards the environment serve as critical indicators of future social transformations within the sphere of sustainable development. The aim of this research was to determine whether project-based learning in geography, as opposed to traditional teaching methods, exerts a more pronounced influence on the formation of environmental values, attitudes, and pro-environmental behavior among students in their final year of primary school. The research was conducted using a convenience sample (n = 255) and employed pedagogical experimental surveys with parallel group designs. In the experimental group, project-based learning was implemented, whereas the control group continued with traditional teach- ing approaches. To assess environmental values and attitudes, the research employed a scale grounded in the EAATE framework, and pro-environmental behavior was evaluated using a measurement scale derived from the PEB and GEB scales. The obtained results are attributed to the influence of project-based learning. Although they cannot be gener- alized to the entire population, they indicate the potential of project-based learning as a more effective strategy in environmental education. Furthermore, these findings provide opportunities for further professional and scientific research in this area

Geoheritage Sites in the Territorial Unit “North of the Autonomous Province of Kosovo and Metohija”

This paper presents an assessment of geoheritage sites in the territorial unit “North of the Autonomous Province of Kosovo and Metohija”, with the objective of identifying their scientific, educational, landscape–aesthetic, conservation, functional, and tourism values. The assessment of geoheritage sites was carried out usingthe Geosite Assessment Model (GAM), which enables an integrated,quantitative evaluation. The analysis encompassed five representative geoheritage sites and was based on data obtained from relevant scientific lite rature and field investigations. The results demonstrate that all analyzed sites exhibit medium to high values for the main indicators, confirming their considerable geoheritage potential. In contrast, the additional values are predominantly mode rate, primarily due to insufficient protection measures, limited promotion, and underdeveloped tourism infrastructure. The identified imbalance between the main values and the level of their valorization unde rscores the need for a systematic and integrated approach to geoheritage management

Mining-Scapes of Participation in Serbian Extractive Regions: Enhancing Participatory Processes in Decision-Making

Extractive regions are among the most visible frontlines of the Anthropocene as they are areas where the environmental and social consequences of intensive resource exploitation are concentrated. In Serbia, mining areas such as Bor and Majdanpek represent complex socio-spatial assemblages in which everyday life, work, and governance intersect under pressures of neoliberal development and ecological degradation. This study aims to identify the challenges and opportunities for citizen participation in mining regions, providing guidance on enhancing participatory processes in decision-making. To operationalise this aim, the study pursues three objectives: (1) to assess residents’ awareness, participation practices, access to information, and motivation to engage in planning; (2) to identify perceived barriers and opportunities for participation; and (3) to formulate recommendations for improving participatory and communication processes in extractive-region governance. Accordingly, the research is guided by the main question: How do residents of the Bor–Majdanpek mining region perceive opportunities and barriers to public participation in planning and decision-making processes? To address this question, a face-to-face field survey was conducted in the summer of 2024 with a random sample of residents (N = 300). In this mixed-methods exploratory study, primary survey data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. In contrast, open-ended questions were analysed qualitatively to capture respondents’ detailed perceptions and suggestions. Findings indicate limited awareness of planning procedures, low participation experience, and structural barriers related to information access, trust, and institutional responsiveness. At the same time, respondents show a strong interest in more transparent, accessible, and dialogic forms of engagement. This study demonstrates that citizen participation in extractive landscapes is not only a procedural requirement but a mechanism to strengthen democratic governance and rebuild trust. Insights from Bor–Majdanpek provide an evidence base for improving participatory practices in mining regions undergoing socio-environmental transformatio

A systematic approach to designing the sustainability indicator sets for local spatial planning in Serbia

Despite considerable efforts invested in design of sustainability indicators (SI) capable of pointing out and measuring the key features of spatial phenomena and estimate sustainability of the planned outcomes, their consistency, relevance and practical usefulness often remain unsatisfactory. Therefore, improvement, proper implementation, and evaluation are crucial for their further application. The presented study aims to improve this situation in Serbia and provide a context-specific contribution to general understanding of the subject. Building on fundamental definitions, concepts and models of sustainable development, it introduces a systematic approach to examining the structure and correspondence of Serbia’s two principal SI sets (SDI and SDS), applicable also in similar contexts. Analysis of inherent and contextual challenges, sets’ structures (SDI: 4 sectors, 40 themes, 204 indicators; SDS: 5 goals, 37 objectives, 106 indicators), conceptual coherence and applicability, highlights the critical importance of adequate formulation of sectors/goals and themes/objectives for ensuring relevance and effectiveness, and provides directions for sets’ improvement and possible integration. The study also proposes a self-regulated meta-evaluation framework, optimised for Serbia yet adaptable to similar environments, to guide sets’ future applications and integration. Additionally, several general guidelines, useful for sustainability assessment, emerged from the research, as well