Ecological-Economic Zoning: A Bibliometric Analysis

Introduction: Historically, territorial planning has sought to balance economic and social demands with environmental constraints. In this context, the UN 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide global guidelines for development strategies. Ecological-Economic Zoning (EEZ) stands out as an essential tool for identifying sensitive areas and classifying them into conservation, controlled use, and sustainable development zones. The study aimed to analyze, through a bibliometric approach, the patterns, trends, and gaps in global scientific production on EEZ, highlighting its role as a strategic instrument for sustainable territorial development. Between 1993 and 2024, 46 articles published in 35 journals were identified, with the participation of 207 authors and an average of 4.8 contributions per article. A total of 1,719 references, 175 keywords, and an average of 7.3 citations per article were counted, highlighting the limited scientific production on the topic. The results reinforce the relevance of the ZEE in integrating ecological, economic, and social dimensions, and the urgency of expanding research to strengthen its application in public policies. Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze, through a bibliometric approach, the patterns, trends, and gaps in global scientific production on Ecological-Economic Zoning (EEZ), highlighting its role as a key tool for sustainable territorial development. Theoretical Framework: This research is a bibliometric analysis on Ecological-Economic Zoning (ZEE), bringing references on territorial planning, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), associating it with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Method: This study employs bibliometric analysis methodology to map and understand the global scientific production on Ecological-Economic Zoning (EEZ). Results and Discussion: A total of 46 articles published between 1993 and 2024 were identified, distributed across 35 journals, involving 207 authors and an average of 4.8 collaborations per article. The total of 1,719 references and 175 keywords, combined with an average of 7.3 citations per article, shows that scientific production on EEZ remains limited, which widens knowledge gaps and reinforces the need for further in-depth research on the subject. Research Implications: Among the main gaps identified are the insufficient development of emerging topics, the low thematic and methodological diversity, and the limited international cooperation. Furthermore, the strong dependence on specific policies and funding emerges as a critical factor that may limit the scope and continuity of initiatives in the sector. Originality/Value: The study highlighted the importance of Ecological-Economic Zoning (EEZ) as a strategic instrument for sustainable territorial planning, integrating ecological, economic, and social dimensions. Through the bibliometric analysis carried out, it was possible to map global scientific production on the subject, identify the main research hubs, publication sources, institutional collaborations, and prevailing thematic trends.