Libya Journal of Geographical Studies

Geomorphological Characteristics of the Continental Shelf Adjacent to the Jifarah Plain Region in Libya Using Geomatics Techniques

2025-06-27T17:22:58+00:00

This study aims to highlight the geomorphological characteristics of the continental shelf adjacent to the coast of the Jifarah Plain region in Libya. It seeks to identify its geomorphological features and produce a geomorphological map of the submerged forms covering its seabed, based on bathymetric data (GEBCO_2024). The study concludes that the geomorphological features of the study area were shaped by a combination of factors, foremost among them the tectonic movements that formed the Western Mountain Highlands, along with episodes of marine transgression and regression throughout geological epochs. The continental shelf is characterized by a geomorphological landscape free of major topographic complexities. It extends from the 0-meter depth contour (the coastline) to the 200-meter depth contour, with an average depth of 104 meters, and gently slopes toward the continental slope at an average gradient of 0.2 degrees. The seabed of the continental shelf is covered with a variety of submerged geomorphological features differing in extent and size, such as sand shoals, hills, plateaus, basins, and canyons. Sand shoals, which appear in the form of plains, ripples, and sandy banks, cover approximately 92% of the shelf area. These formations give the seabed of the study area its undulating appearance, which closely resembles the geomorphological nature of the adjacent mainland (Jifarah Plain) in terms of low relief, gentle gradient, and the types of geomorphological features covering both areas.

Assessment of Land Degradation in the Wadi Ghabin Basin for the Period (2004–2024) Using Geospatial Techniques

2025-06-27T17:30:03+00:00

This study aimed to assess land degradation in the Wadi Ghabin Basin using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) techniques, based on satellite imagery from Landsat-5 and Landsat-8 sensors (TM and OLI) for the years 2004 and 2024. Spectral indices were applied to detect changes in land degradation, including the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Crust Index (CI), Drought Barren Soil Index (DBSI), and Land Degradation Index (LDI). The study employed historical, descriptive-analytical, and quantitative methods to process and analyze freely available satellite data from the US Geological Survey (USGS). The results showed significant changes in land degradation over the period. In 2024, the NDVI indicated the largest area of bare lands classified as severely degraded, covering approximately 450.94 km² (99.54% of the total area), marking an increase of 25.6% compared to 2004. The DBSI showed severe erosion degradation over 380.04 km² (83.89% of the area), which is 61.86% higher than in 2004, mainly due to rising temperatures, reduced rainfall, and diminished vegetation cover. The LDI revealed moderate soil degradation over 323.21 km² (71.35%), an increase of 38.8% from 2004, attributed to intensified wind erosion resulting from low rainfall, reduced vegetation, and higher temperatures.

Sedimentary Islands as an Indicator of Surface Water Flows in the Lower Adwan Wadi Basin, South of Al Jabal Al Akhdar

2025-06-27T17:38:12+00:00

This study investigates the sedimentary islands formed in the lower part of the Wadi Adwan basin, located south of the Green Mountain region, with the aim of understanding water flow variations during surface runoff events. The research relied on field observations and morphometric analysis to determine the characteristics of these islands. Fieldwork included measuring the dimensions of the islands, while the descriptive method was used to record their general features, such as their longitudinal or transverse shapes and degree of regularity. The comparative method served as a principal tool for analyzing differences in shape and size among the sedimentary islands. In addition, a quantitative analytical approach was employed to systematically examine the islands, and morphometric techniques were applied using indices such as elongation ratio, form factor, and length-to-width ratio. The findings reveal that sedimentary islands are distributed along the course of the wadi, particularly in flatter sections, and exhibit considerable variation in size, shape, and sediment composition. This reflects the changing intensity and velocity of water flows over time. Their formation is directly linked to periods of reduced flow velocity and sediment accumulation, especially during floods or following repeated dry spells. Water crossing structures also play a significant role in reshaping the islands. Islands north of the culvert were impacted by stronger currents, resulting in elongated shapes and more regular sediment deposition. In contrast, islands south of the culvert formed under weaker currents and are more oval and irregular due to slower sedimentation rates. Long and wide islands, such as Island 6 (19 m in length and 5.5 m in width), may indicate areas of slower flow where greater sediment accumulation occurs. These islands serve as important geomorphological records of hydrological system changes, enabling the tracking of climatic shifts, human activities, and their influence on sediment redistribution within the wadi basin.

Environmental Awareness and Its Role in Risk Mitigation in Northwestern Libya

2025-06-27T17:46:11+00:00

Northwestern Libya, located within the subtropical zone, faces numerous environmental and human-induced hazards, including low rainfall, recurring droughts, sandstorms, and advancing desertification. These are compounded by human risks such as wars, traffic accidents, fires, and other disasters. This study aimed to assess public awareness of these pressing and potential hazards in the Tripoli region. A descriptive-analytical approach was adopted, using a structured survey administered to a sample of 143 individuals aged 20–70, with educational levels ranging from secondary school to doctoral degrees. The statistical analysis confirmed that desertification is perceived as an ongoing crisis, regardless of educational background. A significant relationship was found between education level and awareness of groundwater depletion risks. No statistically significant differences were noted between age groups regarding awareness of seawater intrusion or aquifer depletion. Interestingly, women showed greater awareness of agricultural drought than men and were more concerned about traffic accidents, inflation, and civil war (p ≤ 0.05). However, the gender difference in awareness of unemployment issues was not statistically significant. Younger respondents (under 40) demonstrated significantly higher concern about limited job opportunities (p ≤ 0.01(.

Natural Assets and Their Role in Rural Tourism (Northeastern Morocco)

2025-06-27T17:53:47+00:00

Water resources are considered a natural heritage par excellence, as they contribute to the development of rural tourism offerings, particularly when water bodies are utilized for recreational and tourism-related activities or simply for the enjoyment of springs and flowing water landscapes. In this context, water transforms from a natural resource within the landscape into a natural attraction that draws visitors and supports rural development. Additionally, water serves as a fundamental element in supporting tourism offerings by supplying fresh water to tourist facilities, irrigating agricultural lands that ensure the availability of local products, and creating an environment attractive to visitors. The southern slopes and margins of the Beni Znassen Mountains in northeastern Morocco are characterized by a diversity of water resources. Springs offer appealing scenes for visitors through their emergence and flow, and they also provide mineral water and support traditional irrigation heritage. Dams (with a total storage of 335 million cubic meters) and an average annual rainfall of 500 mm at Tafoughalt Station contribute to creating an ecologically rich environment with recreational value for visitors. The findings of this research paper reveal the forms of tourism offerings in relation to water resources and the resulting commercial and service activities, which have had a positive impact on rural development in the southern slopes and margins of the Beni Znassen Mountains.

القرى والمنتجعات السياحية في منطقة القره بوللي بين العشوائية والتخطيط ودورها في ترسيخ الهوية الليبية

2025-06-27T18:01:04+00:00

This study examines the reality of villages and tourist resorts in the Qarabulli area, one of Libya’s most prominent coastal regions due to its natural and geographical features. The research highlights the increasing expansion of tourism projects in the area, much of which has occurred in an unplanned and random manner due to the absence of proper urban planning, weak oversight, and overlapping responsibilities among relevant authorities.

The study also addresses the impact of this unregulated expansion on the coastal environment and urban landscape, in addition to the limited integration of Libyan cultural and architectural elements. Many resorts were found to adopt foreign architectural styles that fail to reflect Libyan identity, thus limiting their role in reinforcing national identity or promoting cultural tourism.

The study concludes with a call for integrated planning policies based on sustainability principles, aiming to strengthen Libyan identity in tourism design. It also recommends encouraging well-regulated investment and empowering local communities to participate in shaping the future tourism vision for the region.

Urban Deterioration in the Historic Oujda (Morocco) Influencing Factors and Challenges

2025-06-27T18:04:41+00:00

This study examines the challenges facing the urban fabric of the old city of Oujda, focusing on the various factors contributing to the deterioration of its historical buildings. It highlights how natural factors such as geology and climate interact with human factors like urban expansion and population growth, thereby complicating the city's urban landscape. The study also sheds light on deficiencies in infrastructure and maintenance, changes in land use, and the impact of modern construction on the historical character of the city. In light of these challenges, the study proposes a set of recommendations aimed at mitigating the deterioration of the urban fabric and promoting its sustainability.

The Evolution of the Urban Phenomenon in Mauritania: Context and Results

2025-06-27T18:08:51+00:00

The phenomenon of urbanization has witnessed significant development across all countries of the world, as cities have become attractive areas for populations due to the wide range of services and facilities they offer (education, healthcare, culture, roads, diverse infrastructure, etc.), in addition to employment opportunities resulting from the diversity of economic activities (industry, commerce and services, tourism, transport, etc.). Mauritania, too, has experienced considerable urban development due to both geographical and historical factors. The number of cities has increased fivefold between 1962 and 2000. This study aims to highlight the context and outcomes of the development of the urbanization phenomenon in Mauritania, tracing the evolution of urbanization before, during, and after the colonial period, while also examining the factors and consequences of urban growth in the country.

The Emergence, Development, and Morphology of Gedaref City

2025-06-27T18:17:50+00:00

This paper examines the city of Gedaref in terms of its origin, stages of growth and development, and the events that influenced this progression. It also analyzes the general appearance of the city by studying the elements that shaped its current form, including a morphological analysis of the city plan, building patterns, and land use. The study aims to identify the reasons behind the city's establishment in its current location, trace its stages of expansion, and analyze its urban morphology.

To achieve these objectives, the study utilized field tools to collect data through observation, interviews, questionnaires, maps, and satellite imagery. Statistical methods and computer software were used for data analysis. The historical approach was adopted to track the city's growth stages, along with descriptive analysis of field data and official sources.The study concluded that the city was established at its current location for military purposes during the Turkish era. It also revealed that mechanized agriculture in the region played a major role in the city's growth and development. The study recommended addressing the planning imbalances of previous schemes and adopting more flexible planning approaches that ensure equitable service distribution. Additionally, it emphasized the need to continue decongesting the city center and developing a ring road network to facilitate access to various land uses.

Spatial Analysis of the Distribution of Primary Education Services in Al-Qasim City for the School Year 2023-2024

2025-06-27T18:24:30+00:00

Education is one of the fundamental services in human life, as it is a key indicator of human development. Progress and advancement in any field of life largely depend on the level of education. Consequently, the learner is more productive and creative than others, which highlights the necessity of focusing on education. This study aims to analyze the spatial distribution of primary education services in Al-Qasim City (one of the cities in Babil Governorate) for the school year 2023-2024. The research found that the city has 26 primary schools distributed across 7 residential neighborhoods out of a total of 20 neighborhoods, meaning that only 35% of neighborhoods are served, while 65% (equivalent to 13 neighborhoods) are underserved due to insufficient planning to accommodate population growth. This indicates a shortage in the number of existing schools, reflected by a student-to-school ratio of 576 students per school, which greatly exceeds the accepted standard of 360 students per school. According to this standard, an additional 16 schools are required beyond the current number. The student-to-teacher ratio is 25 students per teacher, and the student-to-class ratio is 40 students per class. Overall, these figures surpass the approved standards, indicating a significant deficit in the number of schools, along with an uneven distribution among neighborhoods. For instance, some neighborhoods are densely served, such as 7 schools in Al-Qadimah neighborhood and 8 schools in Al-Hussein neighborhood, while many neighborhoods lack schools altogether. Functional efficiency of educational services in Al-Qasim City can be achieved through two main measures: constructing new schools and redistributing schools more equitably to avoid concentration in certain areas. Additionally, the city suffers from a shortage of school buildings, resulting in double and triple shifts, which negatively impact the functional efficiency of education services.

Spatial Analysis of the Paved Road Network in the City of Bani Walid : A Study in Transport Geography Using (GIS)

2025-06-27T18:48:38+00:00

The road network is one of the fundamental components of urban infrastructure, playing a crucial role in facilitating transportation, promoting economic and social development, and supporting urban growth. This study aims to evaluate the efficiency of the paved road network in the city of Bani Walid using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). It relies on spatial data analysis of the road network and population density, examining the spatial distribution of roads and the extent to which it meets residents’ needs.This study holds particular importance for Bani Walid, where several neighborhoods suffer from a lack of adequate road infrastructure, affecting access to essential services such as schools and hospitals. The research seeks to analyze the relationship between population density and road network distribution, with a focus on the influence of geographical factors on the network.The methodology included the collection and analysis of field data using GIS tools. A regional approach was adopted to highlight the geographic features of the city and the distribution of roads across its urban districts, while an analytical approach was used to examine data patterns and relationships within the road network. The study concludes with a set of recommendations aimed at improving and developing the road network to better meet the city’s future needs.

The role of small projects in achieving economic development in the Municipality of Misrata

2025-06-27T18:53:31+00:00

This study aims to identify the small projects in the municipality of Misrata and their role in achieving economic development through their impact on the local economy of the area by providing job opportunities and improving individual income levels. It also seeks to highlight the main geographical factors affecting the success of these projects and the key challenges they face. This was done through a questionnaire consisting of six sections distributed to a purposive (non-probabilistic) sample of 150 projects in the area. The results showed a moderate impact of small projects on the local economy, influenced by several factors and challenges related to the geographical location of the projects, infrastructure, financing, and the local market. Various statistical methods were used to test the study’s hypotheses, such as the arithmetic mean, standard deviation, and correlation coefficient.

The Role of Cannabis Cultivation in Socio-Spatial Dynamics and the Degradation of Natural Resources in the South-Central Rif: Ikhlalfa Commune as a Case Study

2025-06-27T18:57:32+00:00

Cannabis cultivation is one of the most prominent agricultural activities in the Central Rif region, with its origins dating back to the 11th century. It emerged in the territory of the Taounate Province during the 1990s. The rural commune of Ikhlalfa is considered one of the first areas in the province to adopt this cultivation, due to its geographical proximity to the historical cannabis-producing regions. Several factors contributed to the emergence and expansion of this activity, including socio-economic vulnerability, limited official intervention, the weak performance of the agricultural economy and its inability to meet basic needs, as well as the high profitability and returns of cannabis—particularly after the introduction of hybrid strains (such as Khardala and Tritika). These factors transformed the agricultural landscape and triggered significant socio-economic dynamics, while having a major impact on the environmental landscape.The study reached several findings, notably the expansion of cannabis cultivation at the expense of cereals and legumes, a decline in livestock farming, and severe degradation of local natural resources. Socially, traditional rural customs associated with collective and cooperative work have disintegrated, and conflicts over land and water have intensified.

Geographical Analysis of Protected Agriculture in the Abu Zahia Area, Sirte Municipality: A Study in Agricultural Geography

2025-06-27T19:04:16+00:00

This study aims to conduct a geographical analysis of the natural and human geographic factors and their impact on protected agriculture. It also focuses on identifying the most important crop types, the cultivated area, and production quantity, with the goal of optimizing the investment in this type of agriculture to ensure food security and support the local economy in the Abu Zahia area, which covers an area of 9,730 hectares and has an estimated population of 8,598. The study adopts the regional approach to clarify the spatial distribution of greenhouses and plastic tunnels and their production quantities. It also applies the descriptive approach, along with two main frameworks: the functional approach, which focuses on the functional structure of the economic activity by studying the agricultural production unit, its tools, labor level, marketing outlets, and daily work movement; and the deterministic approach, commonly used in agricultural geography research to study geographic factors influencing protected agriculture.

Furthermore, the study employs the crop-based approach to analyze the types of crops grown in protected agriculture, and the analytical method that relies on numerical data for accurate analysis and comparison. It uses statistical methods to provide a descriptive and analytical picture of the data by extracting ratios and applying certain statistical standards. The study also utilizes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to produce maps using ArcMap 10.1.

Spatial variation of agricultural land uses in Tuz Khurmato district An applied study on selected provinces

2025-06-27T19:09:04+00:00

The study shows the analysis of spatial differences in agricultural land uses, and this is confirmed by the results of spatial statistical analysis between the selected agricultural districts, which were classified based on the creation of statistical spatial maps with real results using spatial statistical Analysis applications (Spatial statistical Analysis) and the cluster analysis method using Moran's Moran's (I) Method in modeling the spatial distribution of agricultural land uses in tuzkhurmatu district. Spatial statistical processing and analysis in geographic information systems (GIS) is an effective tool to identify spatial differences, relationships and correlations between different geographical phenomena, which makes it possible to accurately assess the use of agricultural land, determine the suitability of the land for agriculture and the potential for its development, as the research found that the distribution of wheat growing areas in the region shows a semi-random pattern, where the Moran index reached 0.193, Z-Score Value 1.32, and P-Value 0.186, which indicates the absence of a clear spatial grouping of the distribution of land planted with wheat, meaning this is the absence of a specific geographical organization at the significance levels of 0.05 and 0.10.

Spatial Suitability for Establishing a Wastewater Treatment Plant in the Al-Khoms Area

2025-06-27T19:13:33+00:00

The establishment of wastewater treatment plants is one of the most important and effective means for the safe and beneficial disposal of wastewater, ensuring public safety and avoiding unacceptable environmental risks. In most cities in Libya, including the study area, it is observed that wastewater discharged from households and institutions—regardless of its source—is disposed of directly into the sea without treatment, thus posing a serious threat to the environment and public health. This research aims to identify the optimal location for establishing a wastewater treatment plant in the Al-Khoms area using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing—key tools in this field that are widely relied upon for planning and decision-making. The study adopted an applied and analytical methodology based on the visual representation of scientific data, including several paper maps and satellite imagery. After extracting and classifying the relevant layers, the Weighted Overlay Model was applied. This process resulted in the production of a digital map through which the optimal site for constructing a wastewater treatment plant in the region was identified. The outcome supports well-informed decisions regarding suitable geographic locations for various environmental projects in the area.

The nature of the rentier economy and its implications for the economic structure in Libya: A study in economic geography

2025-06-28T15:14:23+00:00

This study aimed to analyze the effects of economic rent, specifically in the oil sector, on the productive sectors of the Libyan economy. It examined the impact of an inflated labor force in the services sector, alongside the decline in the contribution of productive sectors—particularly agriculture and industry to the gross domestic product (GDP).To achieve the research objectives, the study relied on reviewing academic sources and previous studies that addressed the subject from multiple perspectives, in addition to analyzing official statistics and reports issued by relevant authorities. The research methodology incorporated historical, descriptive analytical, and comparative approaches to collect, interpret, and compare pertinent data and information. The study concluded that a rentier economy leads to economic instability, as it is directly influenced by fluctuations in global oil prices and the political crises faced by oil exporting countries. Oil revenues have had a clear impact on Libya's labor structure, with a significant contraction in the productive sector and notable growth in the services sector. During the 1970s, the growth rate of the workforce in productive sectors recorded a negative rate of 14%, whereas the services sector experienced a 35% increase in the same period. Furthermore, the findings indicated that oil rent has accounted for more than 50% of the GDP in most years since its discovery, adversely affecting non-oil sectors. In 2008, these sectors recorded their lowest contribution to the national GDP, amounting to only 21.8% of the country’s total output If you need any refinements or further improvements, I'm happy to assist!