suurmaastmelist

Suurmaastmelist, meaning "great landscape" in Estonian, refers to a concept in landscape studies and planning that emphasizes the holistic and interconnected nature of large-scale geographical areas. It moves beyond examining individual features in isolation to understanding how various elements, such as landforms, hydrology, ecosystems, and human activities, interact and influence each other across significant spatial extents. This approach recognizes that natural processes and human impacts operate at broad scales and that effective management and planning require a comprehensive, integrated perspective.

The concept of suurmaastmelist is particularly relevant in fields like environmental management, regional planning, and conservation. It encourages the identification of ecological corridors, the assessment of cumulative impacts of development, and the sustainable use of natural resources over vast territories. By considering the entirety of a landscape, including its historical development and future potentials, suurmaastmelist aims to foster resilient and functional environments. It often involves interdisciplinary collaboration, drawing on expertise from geography, ecology, sociology, and economics. The overarching goal is to achieve a balance between human needs and ecological integrity within these extensive geographical units.