Landscape assessment - a comprehensive approach to conservation on Phu Quoc island, Vietnam

This study delves into the theoretical foundations of landscape science, examining its intrinsic relationship with natural resource management and conservation efforts. It underscores the role of the landscape as a fundamental unit of analysis and intervention, formed through the dynamic interaction of geographical, climatic, and ecological factors. However, in recent decades, landscapes have undergone profound transformations, driven by both natural environmental changes and intensified human activities. These changes have significantly impacted landscape quality, posing substantial risks to ecological integrity and cultural heritage. Phu Quoc Island, the largest island located in the Gulf of Thailand, exemplifies these challenges as it experiences rapid urbanization and economic development. Such processes have led to the degradation of both natural and cultural landscapes, heightening the urgency for comprehensive conservation strategies. In this context, a weighted comprehensive evaluation method was employed to classify and assess the landscape units across Phu Quoc Island using a robust set of 16 criteria. The findings of the study reveal notable spatial disparities in conservation levels. Certain areas, due to their exceptional biodiversity and ecological value, require stringent protection measures to mitigate the risks of degradation. Conversely, other areas, which exhibit medium to low conservation levels, reflect the consequences of ongoing human-induced activities and developmental pressures. To address these findings, the study presents a detailed spatial distribution of conservation levels, providing a clear and systematic framework for identifying priority areas for intervention. This spatial assessment serves as a critical foundation for formulating targeted and sustainable management strategies. The proposed measures aim to reconcile economic development with environmental preservation, safeguarding the ecological integrity, biodiversity, and cultural significance of Phu Quoc Island for future generations. By advancing the understanding of landscape assessment methodologies and their applications, this research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable landscape management and conservation. It highlights the need for integrated, evidence-based approaches to balance development with preservation in rapidly urbanizing regions, offering insights that are applicable not only to Phu Quoc Island but also to similar landscapes facing comparable challenges globally.