Global Megatrends Impacts on the Landscape, Analysis Based on Key Drivers of the Megatrends and Landscape Change: Case Study of Danubian Lowland, Slovakia

Abstract Global megatrends (GMTs) reshape landscapes worldwide, posing challenges for sustainability. This study delves into the complex interplay between GMTs and landscape changes in the Danube Lowland region of Slovakia, a microcosm of broader trends. Leveraging the concept of representative potential geoecosystems (REPGES), we assess historical landscape transformations and correlate them with key GMT drivers. Results reveal significant urban expansion linked to GMT2, primarily impacting the Bratislava area. Simultaneously, GMT5-driven economic growth manifests in agricultural land expansion and the total loss of one REPGES type. Notably, these changes coincide with a decrease in ecological stability across the region. Spatial analysis further unravels the interplay of GMTs, highlighting areas under intense urban and agricultural pressure. Our findings not only shed light on specific GMT impacts in the Danube Lowland but also offer valuable insights for landscape management across diverse regions facing similar megatrends. By understanding these complex interactions, we can develop informed strategies to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by a globalized world, promoting sustainable landscapes for the future.