This chapter discusses and demonstrates how an integrated geospatial analytical framework could play a critical role in understanding the complexity of coupled natural–human systems and finding interdisciplinary solutions. It further demonstrates (1) why solutions to selected environmental problems (such as the impacts of hurricanes) can and should be addressed in the context of space/place, and (2) why the use of place (and space) offers a viable framework for ‘system thinking’ where various disciplines work together to find solutions using geospatial approaches. When a series of maps created using many different disciplinary lenses/expertise and obtained from disparate sources are compiled in a coherent and spatially integrated decision support tool using a place-based approach, this can reveal patterns of complexity in an unprecedented way. This is something that cannot be achieved if these maps were reviewed in isolation without interdisciplinary and integrative views. Such compiled maps from various sources tell a comprehensive story of complexity and emphasize the role of integrated geospatial analysis in understanding the complexity of coupled natural–human systems and finding interdisciplinary solutions. This chapter further demonstrates the value of pace (and space) as an ‘unit of analysis’ that allows a place to be a tying point for data and maps created by experts within their field of expertise. If we could integrate all these data in coherent and spatially explicit ways, we would reveal new interrelationships among data, ask new questions, and even ponder new conceptual frameworks and the possibility of new underlying processes.

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Illustration of System Complexity and Need for Integrative Analysis for Effective Solutions and Decision-Making

  • Barnali Dixon

摘要

This chapter discusses and demonstrates how an integrated geospatial analytical framework could play a critical role in understanding the complexity of coupled natural–human systems and finding interdisciplinary solutions. It further demonstrates (1) why solutions to selected environmental problems (such as the impacts of hurricanes) can and should be addressed in the context of space/place, and (2) why the use of place (and space) offers a viable framework for ‘system thinking’ where various disciplines work together to find solutions using geospatial approaches. When a series of maps created using many different disciplinary lenses/expertise and obtained from disparate sources are compiled in a coherent and spatially integrated decision support tool using a place-based approach, this can reveal patterns of complexity in an unprecedented way. This is something that cannot be achieved if these maps were reviewed in isolation without interdisciplinary and integrative views. Such compiled maps from various sources tell a comprehensive story of complexity and emphasize the role of integrated geospatial analysis in understanding the complexity of coupled natural–human systems and finding interdisciplinary solutions. This chapter further demonstrates the value of pace (and space) as an ‘unit of analysis’ that allows a place to be a tying point for data and maps created by experts within their field of expertise. If we could integrate all these data in coherent and spatially explicit ways, we would reveal new interrelationships among data, ask new questions, and even ponder new conceptual frameworks and the possibility of new underlying processes.