International scientific journal

ISSN: 2663-0419 (electronic version)

ISSN: 2218-8754 (print version)

International scientific journal

ISSN: 2663-0419 (electronic version)

ISSN: 2218-8754 (print version)

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SCImago Journal & Country Rank
№ Special Issue, 2026
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Ecogeographical and ecotouristic resilience: a spatial assessment of regional moisture dynamics and landscape transformations

Imrani Z.T.¹*, Eminov A.N.², Teymurov M.A.¹

¹Institute of Geography, Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan
117, H. Javid Ave., Baku, AZ1073

²Mingachevir State University, Azerbaijan
21, D. Aliyeva street, Mingachevir, AZ4500

*Corresponding author: zaur.imrani@geo.edu.az

DOI: 10.33677/GIANASCONF20260300001


 

Summary

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This study applies a CFE model and Geospatial Analogue Transfer (GAT) technology to assess ecogeographical and ecotourism conditions in Azerbaijan. Based on the heat–moisture principle, the CFE model partitions annual precipitation among surface runoff, effective infiltration, and actual evapotranspiration. The infiltration–evapotranspiration ratio is used to characterise landscape moisture conditions, potential biological productivity, and ecosystem resilience. GAT transfers indicators from reference areas to poorly studied areas with comparable environmental conditions. Hydrometeorological, soil, land-cover, and terrain data from more than 70 measurement and monitoring sites were integrated in a geographic information system to estimate the CFE coefficients and examine relationships among environmental components. The approach was also used to assess landscape changes and distinguish areas requiring further investigation of possible anthropogenic impacts. Validation across approximately 70 catchments yielded coefficients of determination (R²) of 0.74–0.93 and Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) values of 0.62–0.77. Application to the Nakhchivanchay catchment for 1999–2024 revealed contrasting spatial responses to climatic and anthropogenic influences, including substantial differences in vegetation cover, soil degradation, infiltration, evapotranspiration, and “green water” resources. The combined CFE and GAT approach provides a quantitative basis for assessing landscape resilience and recreational carrying capacity, identifying potential ecological corridors, and informing the conservation and sustainable management of natural landscapes and ecological heritage.

Keywords: ecosystem resilience, CFE model, Geospatial Analogue Transfer, landscape transformation, ecotourism, Azerbaijan

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DOI: 10.33677/GIANASCONF20260300001