Mapy krajobrazowe - wybrane problemy ich tworzenia i zastosowania

Landscape maps - selected problems in map production and use

Summary: Among many varieties of thematic maps, the landscape ones are quite unique. A careful examination of multiple landscape maps suggests that such maps may provide very different types of information. There are many reasons for this; however, some of the main reasons include a multiplicity of research methods and definitions of the landscape. Another key reason is the lack of a uniform system of producing this type of map. According to W. Lewandowski (1984), a landscape map is a cartographic image that comprehensively captures the natural environment by presenting geographic units (so-called geocomplexes) of varying importance and type as well as their mutual relationship. Regionalization and physical landscape typology are some of the methods of capturing the landscape in a systematic and comprehensive manner (Ostaszewska 2002). The first approach is based on geographic regions, while the second on landscape types. The difference is very simple: Regional units are unique and cannot be found elsewhere in the world (e.g. Tatra Mts., Beskid Wyspowy Mts.), while typological units repeat across countries and continents (e.g. river valley landscapes, high mountains). The manner in which landscape units are identified becomes important later when landscape maps are used for a variety of purposes. Both regional units and typological units can be used by the tourism. For example, the attractiveness of two different regions can be compared (e.g. Tatras vs. Low Fatras). A similar comparison of typological units is not possible, as both the Tatras and the Low Fatras consist of the same landscape types - high and middle mountains (Kondracki 1978). However, the attractiveness of a given landscape type can be evaluated relative to another landscape type, such as lowlands, foothills, and mountains. Landscape maps are an excellent source of information for the purpose of landscape management. The European Landscape Convention, ratified by 38 member states of the Council of Europe as of January 2014, is designed to protect, manage, and plan the landscape throughout the European Union. Many countries have undertaken research efforts and have created landscape maps in order to help implement the regulations set forth by the Convention. One special project shared by all member states is the European Landscape Character Assessment Initiative, which has made it possible to create a Landscape Map of Europe. A number of research publications have also emerged. However, a persistent question remains: What is the definition of the landscape? Some maps are erroneously designated landscape maps. This includes some land cover maps, as land cover is one element of the landscape - but not its whole. A scientific definition of the concept of landscape is needed in order to start creating a method for producing landscape maps. Furthermore, the production of a landscape should not be the ultimate purpose of such a map. It is important that landscape maps be used much more often than is the case today.

Słowa kluczowe: mapa krajobrazowa, krajobraz, typologia, Europejska Konwencja Krajobrazowa

Słowa kluczowe (w języku angielskim): map, landscape, typology, European Landscape Convention

Krąż P. (red.), 2014, Współczesne problemy i kierunki badawcze w geografii. tom 2, IGiGP UJ, Kraków, s. 63-76.

Instytut Geografii i Gospodarki Przestrzennej UJ

ISBN 978-83-64089-07-7

Pełny tekst (224 KB)