Influence of incentive networks on landscape changes: A simple agent-based simulation approach

• Published in: Environmental modelling & software : with environment data news Vol. 45; pp. 64 - 73
• Main Authors: Caillault, S., Mialhe, F., Vannier, C., Delmotte, S., Kêdowidé, C., Amblard, F., Etienne, M., Bécu, N., Gautreau, P., Houet, T.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01-07-2013; Elsevier
• Subjects: Computer Science; computer software; Emergence; environmental models; farmers; Geography; Humanities and Social Sciences; land policy; land use; Landscape dynamics; Landscape pattern; landscapes; Modeling and Simulation; Neutral model; Simulation; Socio-ecological system; Landscape pattern; Landscape dynamics; Neutral model; Socio-ecological system; Simulation; Emergence; Socio-Ecological System; Landscape Dynamics; Neutral Model; Landscape Pattern
• ISSN: 1364-8152; 1873-6726
• DOI: 10.1016/j.envsoft.2012.11.003

The aim of this paper is to implement a simple model for exploring the influence of different multi-scale incentive networks affecting farmer decision on landscape changes. Three scales of networks are considered: a global ‘policy’ network promoting specific land uses, an intermediate ‘social’ network where land use practices are shared and promoted collectively and a local ‘neighborhood’ network where land use practices are influenced by those of their neighbors. We assess the respective and combined influence of these networks on landscape pattern (fragmentation and heterogeneity) and dynamics, taking into account agronomic constraints (assimilated to crop successions). Simulations show that combination of incentive networks does not have linear and/or cumulative influence on landscape changes. Comparison of simulated scenarios highlights that a combination of two networks tends to improve landscape heterogeneity and fragmentation; scenarios combining all networks could lead to two opposite landscape configuration illustrating emergence of landscape dynamics. Finally, this study emphasizes that landscape complexity has also to be understood through the multiplicity of pathways of landscape changes rather than the assessment of the resulting landscape patterns.
► Networks have a relevant influence in such human decision-making that drive landscape changes. ► Respective and combined network influences are assessed with a neutral model. ► Effects of interacting networks on landscape heterogeneity and fragmentation are complex and non-linear. ► Landscape changes must be evaluated through their dynamics and configuration. ► Similar emergent landscape pattern/dynamics are observed with different networks combination.