ANALYZING SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS IN THE BUFFER ZONE OF SHAHDAG NATIONAL PARK: A CASE STUDY OF GUBA DISTRICT

E.A.Jabrayilov

Institute of Geography named after acad. H.A.Aliyev, Ministry of Science and Education, Republic of Azerbaijan

emil.jabrayilov@gmail.com

DOI: 10.59423/gnr.2024.66.61.010

Annotation. Protected areas, particularly national parks, are vital for conserving bio­diversity and preserving ecosystems. However, their effectiveness hinges on managing the surrounding buffer zones, where human activities intersect with natural habitats. This study focuses on understanding the socio-eco­no­mic indicators within the buffer zone of Shahdagh National Park, em­pha­sizing the case study of Guba District. The area represents a unique eco­system rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage. Through examining key indicators like agricultural productivity, land use patterns, and household livelihood strategies, the interplay between conservation efforts and socio-economic indicators is explored. Results unveil a diverse landscape marked by a spectrum of agricultural practices and livelihoods. The study un­der­sco­res the importance of balancing conservation objectives with the socio-economic needs of local communities in buffer zones. Additionally, a com­prehensive Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) classification was conducted using satellite imagery, highlighting the dominant land cover types and their distribution. This understanding is crucial for informed decision-making in land management and conservation planning, ensuring sustainable deve­lop­ment while conserving natural resources

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Accepted for publication: March 15, 2024

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E.A.Jabrayilov – Analyzing socio-economic conditions in the buffer zone of Shahdag National Park: a case study of Guba district. Geography and Natural Resources, №1 (21), 2024, pp.  76-82.