LDN Toolbox
Welcome to the Toolbox
The LDN Toolbox is a user-oriented entry point to a suite of analytical tools, datasets and methods for land use planning towards land degradation neutrality. The workflow of the toolbox is structured according to the typical 5 phases of an integrated land use planning cycle, as presented in a report of the UNCCD Science-Policy interface on “The contribution of integrated land use planning and integrated landscape management to implementing Land Degradation Neutrality: Entry points and support tools” (see page 30). Explore the tools by clicking Learn More button on each listed tool.
World Atlas for Desertification
8. November 2023
The World Atlas of Desertification (WAD) is a digital platform that combines interactive maps, data visualizations, and scientific insights to track global patterns of land degradation. It supports evidence-based decision-making and promotes sustainable land management practices.
Learn moreTransect Walks
7. November 2023
A participatory method where researchers and community members systematically walk along a defined path to observe and document local conditions. The results are summarized in a transect diagram or map, which informs group discussions and planning.
Learn moreMapX
6. November 2023
MapX provides access to environmental data to support decision-making. It combines technical and political approaches and emphasizes capacity building to strengthen data use and ownership. The platform builds on lessons learned from its application in different country contexts.
Learn moreEvaluating Land Management Options (ELMO)
3. November 2023
Evaluating Land Management Options (ELMO) is a survey tool that captures local motivations for land management choices. It supports LDN by comparing SLM alternatives, ranking their impacts, and identifying context-appropriate actions.
Learn moreAnalytical Hierarchy Process (AHP)
3. November 2023
AHP is a multi-criteria analysis tool that helps compare land management options and prioritize criteria with stakeholder input. It is most effective at local scale or in expert-based assessments due to its time-intensive process.
Learn moreCollect Earth
3. November 2023
Collect Earth Online (CEO) is an open-source platform that uses satellite imagery to monitor deforestation, degradation, and land-use change. It supports decision-making for climate mitigation, sustainable land use, and livelihood protection.
Learn moreGlobal Agro-Ecological Zoning (GAEZ)
3. November 2023
Agro-Ecological Zoning (AEZ) assesses land resources to determine crop suitability and production potential. It guides sustainable planning by identifying constraints, opportunities, and climate-resilient land-use options.
Learn moreLandPKS
3. November 2023
LandPKS is a cloud-based tool that combines geospatial data and local knowledge to evaluate land potential. It supports LDN by identifying degradation status, enabling knowledge exchange, and suggesting suitable land management actions.
Learn moreWOCAT-LADA-DESIRE Mapping Tool
3. November 2023
WOCAT-LADA-DESIRE combines GIS-based mapping with expert questionnaires to assess land use, degradation drivers, and LDN indicators. It requires spatial data, GIS skills, and local expertise.
Learn moreSocial Tenure Domain Model (STDM)
31. October 2023
STDM is a QGIS-based tool that records formal and informal tenure rights through local mapping and surveys. It supports LDN planning by identifying stakeholders and integrating local input.
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