Optimising Agricultural Land Use Choices in Ireland Using a Spatial Decision-Support Framework
Explore how spatial modelling can optimise agricultural land use in Ireland's changing climate. Develop tools integrating GIS and climate data to support sustainable farming and policy decisions.
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Project Description
Project Overview
This project focuses on optimising agricultural land use in Ireland by developing a spatial decision-support framework. It integrates GIS development, spatial modelling, regional climate analysis, and land-atmosphere interactions to address agricultural, environmental, and policy challenges in a changing climate.
What You Will Do
You will combine applied GIS techniques and advanced climate data analysis to model land use scenarios that support sustainable agriculture. The research involves spatial multi-criteria decision analysis, modelling soil functions, and assessing trade-offs in agricultural productivity and environmental outcomes.
Expected Outcomes
A robust spatial decision-support tool tailored for Ireland’s agricultural landscapes. The tool will inform policy and land management decisions balancing productivity, carbon storage, and ecosystem services. Contributions also include enhanced methodologies for integrating climate and land use data.
Why This Matters
With increasing climate pressures on agriculture, optimising land use is critical for sustainability. This research supports effective management of soil-based ecosystem services, sustainable intensification of agriculture, and environmental protection at local and national levels.
How to Apply
Eligibility
Supervisor Profile
Dr. Réamonn Fealy is a senior researcher at Teagasc specialising in spatial analysis, GIS development, and spatial modelling applied to agriculture, environment, and policy. His work integrates advanced spatial techniques with climate studies, focusing on Ireland. He has a strong publication track record in functional land management and environmental science.