Landscape science is a key branch of geography that examines the structure, development, and functioning of natural territorial complexes. As interactions between nature and society intensify, landscapes need to be studied not only through individual components but also as integrated systems. This paper systematizes the conceptual foundations of a systems approach in landscape science and outlines the role of landscape ecology in evaluating ecological functions, stability, and responses to anthropogenic pressure. Landscapes are treated as open systems connected to the external environment through exchanges of matter and energy, driven primarily by solar energy, atmospheric precipitation, and biological processes. The synthesis highlights key analytical tasks—assessing landscape stability, identifying ecological risks, regulating anthropogenic loads, and supporting rational use of natural resources—as a scientific basis for sustainable development. The systems approach is presented as practically important for landscape planning, territorial development management, and ecological monitoring.

Landscape science, systems approach, landscape ecology

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