ASSESSMENT OF ANTHROPOGENİC IMPACTS ON LAND AND LANDSCAPE SYSTEMS: ENVİRONMENTAL RİSKS AND SUSTAİNABLE LAND MANAGEMENT APPROACHES

The article examines anthropogenic changes in land and landscape systems under long-term industrial and urban pressure. Sumgayit was selected as the study area because its territory has been strongly influenced by industrial development and the associated accumulation of pollutants in soil, water, and atmospheric environments. The study considers these components as interconnected parts of the landscape rather than as separate environmental elements. The analysis is based on ecological-geographical, comparative, analytical, and systemic methods. Published scientific data and statistical materials on industrial waste, atmospheric emissions, soil and water pollution, heavy metals, and urban development were examined. Particular attention was paid to changes in soil properties and vegetation conditions, the accumulation of pollutants in water systems, and the combined effects of different sources of anthropogenic pressure. The analysis indicates that prolonged industrial activity has significantly altered the studied land and landscape systems. The accumulation of heavy metals and other pollutants in soils reduces their biological activity and limits the natural recovery of vegetation. Atmospheric emissions and water pollution increase the pressure on adjacent areas and contribute to further landscape degradation. Areas affected by industrial and military infrastructure require particular attention because several forms of disturbance may occur simultaneously. The findings indicate the need for land management measures that combine pollution reduction with the restoration of degraded areas. Recultivation of contaminated land, regular environmental monitoring, soil protection, and the rational use of restored territories are important for maintaining their ecological functions and improving their potential for future use.