Environmental models in
different fields (e.g. climatology, hydrology) often rely on high resolution Land-Use
or Land-Cover (LULC) data to characterise the physical and functional
properties of the modelled environment. On one hand, future simulations in such
domains can be coupled to the outcomes of scenarios provided by LULC models
(e.g. urban growth models). At the same time, LULC models can also build on feedback
of natural or socio-economic phenomena, and their expected impact on the land
system. Coupled or integrated modelling approaches drawing on LULC information
are hence increasingly needed to understand and address society-environment
interactions in pursuit of more sustainable development. Yet several practical
and conceptual problems remain to be solved. Models use different spatial or
time scales, prefer other definitions of LULC classes, should deal with agent/cell
heterogeneity, and modellers have to deal with error propagation between
coupled/integrated models. In this session we welcome presentations on tools,
methods and projects with an integrated modelling approach linked to LULC, where
LULC data or models are adapted to environmental models, or environmental
applications of LULC models. Critical appreciations, exposition of challenges
or limitations in integrated LULC-environmental models, as well as proposals
for solutions, are encouraged.