Land use maps: Insights from the Polish experience

This study explores thematic and methodological trends in land use and land cover (LU/LC) mapping in Poland within the broader context of land system science. In the current era of global environmental change, maps that depict land use have increasingly become essential. Understanding spatial patterns is vital for sustainable land governance, which in turn underpins a range of policy and development goals. Based on 272 JCR-indexed publications, the study identifies dominant research themes and methodological approaches. Polish scholars have primarily focused on LU/LC classification, modelling, and temporal dynamics, with remote sensing and GIS being central. A knowledge map of Polish land use research is presented, highlighting key networks and authors.