Agricultura no.

3 - 4 (127-128)/2023 Agriculture

LANDSCAPE VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF AN

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT (GYPSUM QUARRIES) -
CASE STUDY
Păunița Iuliana Boancă1, Alice Oprică2*, Sonia Bodea1, Andrei Mărincean3,
Adelina Dumitraș1
1
University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Horticulture and
Rural Development Business, Horticulture and Landscape Architecture Department,
Mănăştur St.3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
2
Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism, Department of
Urbanism and Technical Sciences
3
University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, The Doctoral School of
Agricultural Engineering Sciences
*corresponding author: alice.oprica@arch.utcluj.ro

Abstract. The main objective of the study was to assess the landscape and visual
impact generated by the expansion of a gypsum quarry in the commune of Căpușu Mare, Cluj
County. The studied area was evaluated to determine the likely extent of landscape disruption
and visual impact. The study was structured in two main stages and three phases. Visual
impact was determined by assessing the degree of change resulting from the introduction of
additional structures and terrain structuring works on the character and elements of the
existing landscape. All possible perspectives were considered regarding the proposed
development. Subsequently, the predicted impact and its mitigation were addressed. In the
final stage, the residual impact that cannot be fully mitigated was considered. The results
indicate that the implementation of the project will cause damage to the physical environment,
and the in-situ landscape structure will be altered. Surrounding lands will experience indirect
and insignificant changes, especially in terms of the bio-components of the physical
environment, but the landscape will maintain its functional sustainability. The main impact on
the landscape will occur at a local scale (in situ), affecting visual and aesthetic perception in
the immediate vicinity and from points located at higher elevations within a radius of 500 m
to 1000 m.

Keywords: visual impact, landscape, quarries, disruption, change, character

INTRODUCTION

The exploitation of gypsum quarries can have a significant impact on the

landscape, negatively influencing the visual appearance of the area (Dentoni and
Massacci, 2013; Nesticò et al., 2024). Here are several aspects that can contribute to
this impact:
Changes in the terrain: Gypsum quarries often involve massive extraction
of the material, leading to significant alterations in the local terrain. Deep
depressions, steep slopes, and changes in natural topography can dramatically
modify the landscape's appearance (Nyssen and Vermeersch, 2010).
Development of associated infrastructure: Gypsum quarrying often requires
the construction of infrastructure such as access roads, working platforms, and
facilities for gypsum processing and transportation. These constructions can
substantially alter the look of the area and have a negative impact on local aesthetics.

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Waste storage and disposal: The extraction and processing of gypsum

generate waste, and the improper management of these wastes can negatively impact
the landscape. Inadequate storage and disposal of waste can lead to soil and water
contamination, affecting local biodiversity and the surrounding landscape.
Changes in vegetation: Gypsum extraction may involve the removal of
existing vegetation in the affected area. The loss of local ecosystems and
biodiversity can have negative consequences for the landscape.
Visual pollution: Industrial facilities associated with gypsum quarrying,
such as heavy machinery, conveyors, and processing plants, can contribute to visual
pollution in the area. This may include massive structures, suspended dust, and other
elements that negatively affect the landscape's appearance.
Impact on the local community: Gypsum quarrying can affect local
communities, including their quality of life and cultural values. Considering the
opinion of the community regarding the visual impact of gypsum quarries on the
local landscape is essential Gagen and Gunn, 1998; Wheater and Cullen, 1997;
Svobodova et al. 2012; Clemente et al., 2004; Agboola et al., 2020; Asr et al., 2019).
To minimize the negative impact, it is crucial for authorities and companies
involved in gypsum quarrying to adopt responsible environmental management
practices and implement measures for the conservation and restoration of the
affected landscape. Proper planning and community consultation can contribute to
finding a balance between resource exploitation and the protection of the natural
landscape.
The analysis of the visual impact on the landscape in this case is important
to establish:
Conservation of the natural landscape: A detailed analysis can help identify
visually sensitive areas and develop strategies to minimize significant alterations in
these zones. This contributes to the conservation of the natural landscape and the
maintenance of its aesthetics.
Management of biodiversity impact: Changes to the landscape can affect
local biodiversity by disrupting natural habitats and ecosystems (Beggs,
2012; Wassenaar et al., 2012). An analysis of the visual impact can contribute to
identifying and protecting critical areas for biodiversity.
Planning for sustainable development: Understanding the visual impact
allows for the development of plans and practices that promote responsible resource
exploitation while minimizing visual disturbances. This contributes to sustainable
development that respects both human needs and ecological integrity.
Community consultation: The analysis of visual impact should involve
consulting the local community, as the landscape's appearance is often tied to
cultural identity and quality of life. Community opinions should be considered in the
decision-making process to ensure project acceptance and support.
Implementation of mitigation measures: An analysis of visual impact can
identify potential negative effects, enabling developers to implement mitigation
measures. These measures may include landscaping, protective screens, or other
interventions to reduce the impact on the visual aspect.
By conducting a thorough analysis of visual impact, a more holistic and
sustainable approach to gypsum quarrying can be ensured, simultaneously
safeguarding the ecological and aesthetic values of the landscape. A series of

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scientific studies support the importance of assessing the visual impact on the
landscape in the case of diverse industrial developments and describe effective
methods of analysis (Palmer, 2015; Dupont et al. 2016; Antrop et al., 2017; Dupont
et al. 2017; Guo et al., 2019; Gobster et al., 2019; Sun et al., 2021). This study
investigates the landscape and visual impact associated with the development project
for a surface gypsum mining operation in the commune of Căpușu Mare, Cluj
County, Romania. The project falls under the category of a production area/mineral
resources exploitation zone. The study involves a detailed examination and
interpretation of the landscape's character, the elements of the area, and the visual
context of the mining development and extraction process. Subsequently, an
assessment of the visual impact of the project on the landscape was conducted.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

1. Study Area. The studied area is located in Cluj County, within the
administrative territory of Căpușu Mare commune, in the outskirts of Dumbrava
locality (Fig. 1). Căpușu Mare commune is situated at the northeastern foothills of the
Gilău Mountains, on the Căpuș River, in the western part of Cluj County, 25 km
away from Cluj-Napoca and Huedin.
The commune is positioned on the European road Cluj-Oradea and shares
borders with Aghireșu and Gârbău to the north, Râșca to the south, Gilău to the east,
and Mănăstireni and Izvoru Crișului communes to the west.
The project's lands are located in the outskirts of Căpușu Mare commune,
approximately 0.5 km southeast of the Leghia locality and about 2 km north of the
Dumbrava locality.
Administratively, the land belongs to Căpușu Mare commune, Cluj County,
situated at the northern limit of its built-up area. Geographically, the Dumbrava area
is part of the northwestern Transylvanian Depression and is located near the
northeastern edge of the Gilău Mountains. The Dumbrava deposit is situated in the
outskirts of the locality with the same name. Access to the area is provided via the
DJ108C road from Gârbau to Mărgău.
The lands affected by the investment implementation, covering
approximately 15 hectares, are situated in a hilly area with significant elevation
differences. The proposed objective area consists entirely of uncultivated agricultural
lands, of inferior quality, located in the outskirts of Dumbrava locality, to the north of
Dumbrava village.
The land in the area where the quarry will be developed is steep. The
topographic structure of the area provides narrow viewing angles; the views are wide
only from elevated areas. In this way, the gypsum quarry will be visible only from
certain points. Topographic changes will be evident in the area of the quarry opening,
gypsum mining, and the associated construction site arrangement. Mining
development will cause topographic changes that will follow the contours of the
relief, and these changes are not prominently observable from all studied viewpoints.
The land in the area where the quarry will be developed is clearly
differentiated from the neighboring areas. The area where the locality Dumbrava is
located has a lower elevation compared to the implementation area of the project.
This topographic structure provides wide viewing angles only from elevated areas
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towards the studied area. In this way, the studied area will be visible only from
certain points and especially through the presence of the observer in situ.

Study area

Figure 1. Study area

Figure 2. Topographic Study - Exploitation Perimeter

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2. Metodologia utilizată în evaluarea impactului visual asupra peisajului.

The landscape study is organized into two primary stages and comprises three phases.
The visual impact was assessed by gauging the extent of change resulting from the
introduction of additional structures and landscaping activities on the existing
landscape's character and elements. Key perspectives were taken into account,
including views from and towards nearby settlements (specifically Dumbrava
locality), access points, adjacent agricultural lands, and the existing boundary road.
All possible viewpoints towards the proposed development were considered.
Two primary analysis stages were identified: Landscape Analysis and Visual
Impact. For each of these stages, an initial evaluation of existing baseline conditions
was conducted. Subsequently, attention was given to the anticipated impact and its
mitigation. In the final phase, residual impact, which cannot be entirely mitigated,
was addressed. The study unfolded through three distinct phases: Initiation,
Landscape Analysis and Characterization, and Evaluation of Landscape Values:
• Phase 1 – Initiation: Describing the location and context of the studied area;
Collecting basic data and information; Base mapping and combining mapped data.
• Phase 2 – Landscape Analysis and Characterization: Describing the visual
character and development of landscape character units; Mapping vegetation;
Mapping topography; Mapping cultural and indigenous heritage; Identifying key
viewpoints and their significance; Analyzing views based on field-collected data and
computerized processing assessments.
• Phase 3 – Evaluation of Landscape Values: Assessing how the visual
character of the landscape is perceived, experienced, and valued; Identifying
preferences for visual character.
The Landscape and Visual Impact were assessed as follows: during the
summer months of 2018. This approach allowed for objective observations based on
the analysis of differences in elements, including vegetation, textures, color, and
visibility. A contextual area was taken into consideration to establish the landscape
character. The landscape was studied in detail, including the identification of the
following elements: significant vegetation, topography, land patterns, buildings,
roads, and neighboring settlements. A Visual Envelope (VE) was established to
define the visual context of the neighboring areas, the existing road, and to set the
boundaries of the studied area for visual impact assessment. The Visual Envelope is
defined as the area from which a system of features is potentially visible. It is defined
in the "Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment," 3rd Edition, as
follows: "the area of land from which there is a view to any part of the proposed
development... all changes of impact should occur within this zone."
The evaluation of landscape values was conducted based on the following
process:
 Identification, through consultation of publications, studies, and specialized
documents, of criteria for assessing landscape values (Operational Guidelines
for the Implementation of World Heritage Convention, United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, 2012 - UNESCO
Guidelines).
 Utilization and application of these criteria to the studied area.
 Evaluation of the following aspects: Visual Sensitivity; Significance of
Landscape Impact; Identification of visual receptors and the sensitivity of
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receptors; Magnitude of the visual impact of the project according to

specialized literature (Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for
England and Scotland, 2002 - Carys Swanwick Department of Landscape
University of Sheffield and Land Use Consultants for The Countryside
Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage; Matthias et al., 2014; Scenario
Methodology for Modeling Future Landscape Developments as Basis for
Assessing Ecosystem Services, Landscape Online, 2014; United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, 2012; Jacobs Engineering
UK Ltd, 2008; Partnerships for Renewables Development Co. Ltd., 2014;
Swaffield and Boffa, 2010; Best Practice Note 10.1: Landscape Assessment
and Sustainable Management; The Landscape Institute and Institute of
Environmental Management, 2002; Bradley and Hammond, 1993; Landscape
Institute, I.E.M.A., 2013, Code of Practice Small Quarries. Energy and Earth
Resources; United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization,
2012).
 Based on the study, mitigation measures were recommended for the visual
and physical impact on the landscape.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

1. Analysis according to landscape evaluation criteria. After analyzing the

landscape value evaluation criteria, both in the field and through computerized
methods, it can be concluded that despite the ecological importance and aesthetic
pleasantness of the landscape in the studied area, it is challenging to justify that the
implementation area contains "superlative natural phenomena or exceptional areas of
natural beauty or aesthetic importance" compared to other UNESCO World Heritage
sites or nationally significant landscapes. Additionally, there are no visible physical
evidence of historical cultural traditions or civilizations, with contemporary
development patterns predominating. Overall, the landscape in the studied area
cannot be defined as a "Cultural Landscape." Based on the evaluation criteria, it falls
into the category of a rural landscape.
Landscape Values – Rural. There are numerous patterns and individual
structures that reinforce the local rural character:
• Agricultural patterns, colors, and textures that complement natural elements
prevail.
• Gradual transition between agricultural areas and the natural landscape.
• Topographic variety and robustness.
• Less preferred or anthropized features have been identified as follows:
• Land uses that strongly contrast with the natural characteristics of the
landscape.
• Anthropized features: access roads; high-tension lines, easement roads.
• Rural settlements.
• Landscape Typology: Rural
Discussions: The Landscape Character in the outskirts of Dumbrava locality,
Căpușu Mare commune, is rural and agricultural. The most prevalent features in the
landscape are agricultural patterns, pastures, clusters of deciduous shrubs, and arable
lands. The terrain is varied, with a predominance of agricultural areas. Anthropized
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elements are present in the form of high-tension lines. The access road (boundary) in
this area is not landscaped or specially managed. Overall Landscape Value: Good
quality (Recognizable landscape structure, characteristic pattern and balanced
combination of relief forms and cover types are still evident. The aim is to improve
land use and cover management. Some elements are worth conserving. Occasionally
affected elements. According to Table 1 and 2 and based on field analysis, the
landscape quality was assessed: two qualities of the landscape were identified. The
development areas will be visible, especially from the immediate vicinity.
Considering the overall character of the landscape, the relief, and the placement -
there are broad views towards the development only from the Dumbrava locality (exit
towards the studied area) and from the lands in the immediate vicinity, thus the visual
impact being localized. Gypsum extraction results in temporary changes to the relief
forms and geology of the area. The magnitude of the changes in the landscape
character is thus considered to be moderate and permanent.
Table 1
The quality of the landscape in the investment objective area - lands in the vicinity of the
project implementation area
Category Criteria
Good quality Recognizable landscape structure, characteristic pattern, and
balanced combination of relief forms and cover types are still
evident. The aim is to improve land use and cover management.
Some elements are worth conserving. Occasionally affected
elements. Sense of place.

Table 2
The quality of the landscape in the investment objective area - the project implementation
area.
Category Criteria
Common Distinct landscape structure, characteristic patterns, and
quality, combinations of relief forms and land cover often masked by land
ordinary use practices. The goal is to improve land use and cover
management. Some elements are worth conserving. Prominent
impact on elements.

Figure 3. The landscape components in a confined context include specific elements of the
anthropized environment (light poles), with the predominant vegetation being typical of
hillside pastures
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Figure 4. The studied area - Landscape components - Confined context - Tree and shrub
vegetation specific to wetland banks

Figure 5. Meadows, uncultivated arable land, cultivated arable land, vegetation specific to hill
pastures, shrub and tree vegetation specific to wetland areas

Figura 6. Studied area - Landscape character - Confined context

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2. Existing Visual Aspect. The existing landscape is assessed as being of

two types:
• Good quality in the area of uncultivated agricultural lands where meadows
with medium value have stabilized.
• Common, ordinary quality overall in anthropized areas (agricultural lands).
• Landscape sensitivity to change is low to medium.
• The studied area and immediate surroundings promote a sense of place and
local interest.
• There are no obvious built structures in the area apart from the boundary
road and the associated residences of the Dumbrava locality. The landscape is diverse
due to the relief forms and the alternation of low-quality pastures with stabilized
meadows on uncultivated agricultural lands. Ecologically, aesthetically, in terms of
the area's representation, functions, and landscape benefits, the landscape has
increased aesthetic values.
3. Visual Impact
Visual envelope. The visual envelope is illustrated in Figure 6, along with the
location of the main visual receptors and viewpoints.
The visual envelope is marked as follows:
• To the North and Northwest of the Leghia locality,
• To the South of the Dumbrava locality,
• To the West – the existing quarry,
• To the East – arable lands, pastures, meadows, and in the wider framework
of the Inucu locality,
• To the Northeast – the Leghia Gypsums.
The visual envelope was established taking into account the following
important aspects:
• The surface area of the site of interest;
• The location of the Leghia Gypsums site,
• The location of neighboring localities in the context of the gypsum quarry
development.
The natural geological reservation of national interest known as "Gipsurile de
la Leghia" is located in the western part of Cluj County, at the exit from the village of
Leghia towards Aghireșu, on the right side of the road (DJ 108C) and the Leghia
stream. The protected area extends in the western region of the Căpușului and
Nadășului Hills. The development of the gypsum mining quarry will not interfere
with this protected area, neither physically nor visually. The proposed structures do
not cross the protected area, and there are no physical changes expected in this area
during construction or use. The impact on the landscape is considered neutral. From a
visual perspective, the impact on the Gipsurile de la Leghia is non-intrusive. Views
towards and from this protected area will retain their characteristics entirely.
Thus, a general visual envelope with a diameter of 4,000.00 m and a visual
envelope established in the main area of interest with a diameter of 2,000.00 m were
determined. The analyzed views are representative of the studied location and the
identified visual receptors. We specify that the assessment of the visual impact have a
result that relates to:

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The impact of the future development through gypsum exploitation –

considering that this proposed project was only possible to be evaluated from the
perspective of the impact it will have on the landscape until the cessation of
exploitation and development activities and the beginning of rehabilitation.

Figure 7. Visual envelope

We appreciate that views toward the studied site from any vicinity could
generally be categorized as having negligible or minor magnitude. However, the
area within the perimeter does not currently allow for this classification—similarly,
views from certain elevated areas. Therefore, the magnitude of the visual impact of
views toward the future quarry and its immediate vicinity is major but temporary.
The quarry will be visible from certain viewpoints for which a negligible or minor
magnitude of visual impact was calculated. The observation points from which the
quarry will be visible were assessed in this manner because they are located in
elevated areas from which the future development will be visible.
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Figure 8. Location of the nationally protected geological reserve "Gypsum from

Leghia"

4. The assessment of visual sensitivity and the significance of Landscape

Impact

The sensitivity of the landscape in the investment objective area
Sensitivity to change of the existing
landscape in the investment objective
area
Low (development implementation
zone)
Moderate (area of uncultivated
agricultural land nearby)
Table 3
Evaluation criteria
Low-quality, common, impoverished
landscape that would tolerate a high degree
of change, and effective mitigation would be
easily achievable
A landscape of good quality that would
tolerate a low degree of change, and
efficient mitigation would be possible, but
the results would take time to be effective

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Table 4
The Significance of Landscape Impact
The effect of the Characteristics
project
Neutral effect They would be well-designed to complement the scale,
relief, and pattern of the landscape. They would
incorporate mitigation measures to ensure that the Scheme
fits well with the elements of the surrounding areas and the
landscape. They will avoid being visually intrusive or
having an impact on the current level of tranquility of the
landscape through which the route passes. Maintain the
existing character of the landscape in an area that is not
designated, does not have a recognized quality at the
national or local level, and is not vulnerable to change.
Avoid conflict with government policies regarding the
protection of rural areas.
Table 5
The significance of the Visual Impact in the project implementation area
View Type Level of Visual Impact Number Affected
 Views from neighboring localities, Minor effect 1
agricultural lands, or other types
of properties with medium Moderate effect 3
sensitivity due to the changes
caused by the quarry
development; Major effect 5

 Views from public roads with Negligible effect 1

medium sensitivity caused by the
changes produced by the quarry
development;
No change 19
 On-site views (immediate vicinity
of the mining development).
Total 29

5. Visual receptors identified and receptor sensitivity. Two types of

receptor sensitivity have been identified, as described in the table below:
Table 6
Visual receptors identified and receptor sensitivity
Sensitivity Possible receptors in the project implementation area
Medium Observers with moderate interest in their surroundings and with
discontinuous and/or irregular periods of viewing, such as:
• Workers (outdoors);
• Users engaged in sports or recreational activities other than those
aimed at appreciating the landscape.
low Observers with passing interest in the surroundings and momentary
periods of viewing, such as:
• Drivers/passengers in moving vehicles.
• People at work.
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6. The magnitude of the visual impact. The magnitude of the visual impact
refers to the extent or intensity of the visual changes caused by the proposed project.
This involves assessing the degree to which the character and appearance of the
landscape will be affected following the implementation of the project. The
evaluation is based on modifications to landforms, land use, natural and
anthropogenic elements, textures, colors, and other visual features. Following the
examination of the viewpoints considered within the Visual Envelope for assessing
the landscape post the implementation of the gypsum quarry the collected data
pertaining to the magnitude of the visual impact are summarized in the table 7.
A total of 29 viewpoints were scrutinized, originating from neighboring
localities, adjacent lands, and existing access roads leading to the site. Favorable
visibility conditions were noted, with unobstructed sightlines. Additionally, to ensure
the impartiality of the field viewpoint analysis, a computerized assessment was
conducted.
We specify that the visual analysis was conducted both in the field and
through 3D modeling using GIS techniques of the land on which the quarry will be
developed and the surrounding areas in an area with a diameter of 4000 m. Visual
analyses were carried out from the visual receptor level both in the field and
computerized. The gypsum quarry development area is represented in red in the
model (the entire surface) for a clear understanding of the visual impact on receptors
located at different observation points.

Table 7
The magnitude of the visual impact
The
magnitude
Viewpoint Definition
of the visual
impact
V1 No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
V2 No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
V3 No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
The proposed project will create a new visible and easily
V4 Moderate recognizable element in the overall view. The proposed project
will cause a noticeable deterioration in the existing landscape.
V5 No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
The proposed project will be a minor component in a broad view.
V6 Minor The proposed project will cause a barely perceptible deterioration
in the existing landscape.
V7 No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
V8 No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
V9 No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
V10 No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
V11 No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
The proposed project will create a new visible and easily
V12 Moderate recognizable element in the overall view. The proposed project
will cause a noticeable deterioration in the existing landscape.
No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
V13

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No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views

V14

Only a very small part of the proposed project will be visible. It

V15 Negligible
will not produce any perceptible deterioration or improvement in
the existing views.
The proposed project will dominate or form a significant and
immediately apparent part of the view, affecting and changing the
V16 Major
overall character. The proposed project will cause a significant
deterioration of the existing views.
The proposed project will dominate or form a significant and
immediately apparent part of the view, affecting and changing the
V17 Major
overall character. The proposed project will cause a significant
deterioration of the existing views.
No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
V18
No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
V19
No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
V20
No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
V21
No change
V22 There will be no observable changes in the existing views
The proposed project will introduce a new visible and easily
recognizable element into the view within the overall character.
V23 Moderate
The proposed project will cause a noticeable deterioration in the
existing panorama.
V24 No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
The proposed project will dominate or form a significant and
immediately apparent part of the view, affecting and changing the
V25 Major
overall character. The proposed project will cause a significant
deterioration of the existing views.
V26 No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
The proposed project will dominate or form a significant and
immediately apparent part of the view, affecting and changing the
V27 Majoră
overall character. The proposed project will cause a significant
deterioration of the existing views.
The proposed project will dominate or form a significant and
immediately apparent part of the view, affecting and changing the
V28 Major
overall character. The proposed project will cause a significant
deterioration of the existing views.
Point of
No change There will be no observable changes in the existing views
view Inucu

The proposed development structures do not pass through the sites of

community importance, nor do they involve physical changes to these areas during
construction or use. Additionally, the activities associated with the development of
the quarry for gypsum exploitation do not involve intrusions into protected areas and
are not part of the vulnerabilities listed above. Visually, the impact on the protected
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areas is not intrusive. Views towards and from these areas will retain their
characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

The following general observations can be extracted from the perspective of

landscape analysis and visual impact assessment:
 In nearly all residential areas where viewpoints were located, the
relief and vegetation act as screens, mitigating the visual impact on
residential zones.
 Non-residential visual receptors that could be significantly impacted
by the studied area were not identified, primarily due to the absence
of recreational areas and major road routes in the immediate vicinity.
The project involves gypsum mining operations, inevitably leading to
excavations and the use of heavy machinery. The development will substantially alter
the physical appearance of the site by creating a dry area initially and later on. The
landscape's structure and functions will change – the structure will shift from
horizontal to vertical, affecting rock layers, topography, soil, and existing plant
components during implementation. After rehabilitation, the functions and structure
of the landscape in the area will be significantly improved and valuable in terms of
biodiversity.
The site's rehabilitation will alter the visual and aesthetic perception of the
landscape and restore its functions. The negative impact of the project will include:
 Temporary transformations in land use, changing from arable land to
gypsum quarrying (temporarily) with exposed soil, causing short-
term effects on the landscape's character.
 The proposal will require the permanent removal of arable land,
which is a reversible but long-term effect.
 Physical land occupation.
 De-vegetation.
 Short-term derogation of the ecological quality of the environment.
Neighboring localities and dedicated communication routes will remain
physically unaltered – there will be no impact on them. The project will undoubtedly
have an irreversible impact on the existing landscape, but at the local level, this
impact will not be negative in the end. The footprint of technogenic landscapes will
expand at the expense of other landscapes during operations, but it will not interfere
with protected areas.
The primary indirect impact is expected to arise from the traffic generated by
gypsum extraction. This will result in a visual impact on other users of transportation
networks and a general impact on the scenic qualities of local views. During the
exploitation period, it is recommended to implement a set of improvement and
restoration measures so that, after the cessation of specific activities, the
implementation of restoration plantings gradually reduces the magnitude of visual
effects. The primary anthropogenic impact resulting from the project implementation
will affect the landscape components. There will be a two-stage process of landscape
modification during the project.

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The first stage will occur during the gypsum extraction operations, with the
key process being the extraction itself, altering the existing structure. Another process
leading to landscape alteration will be the transportation of the extracted material to
the processing facility. No new constructions, site-related structures, storage areas, or
production facilities will intervene in the landscape, as the existing processing facility
will be utilized. The exploitation layout will be progressive, and the existing
environment will be affected by changes in surface profiles and visual and aesthetic
perceptions. The landscape will be modified to some extent concerning its functions
– limited accessibility due to the relatively steep slopes resulting from the extraction
and layout process. These inconveniences are temporary.
Changes in the landscape will be direct but locally significant, implying
substantial modifications to landscape components. The agricultural landscape
typology will transform into a technogenic landscape during the gypsum extraction
development. The changes will be essentially irreversible since the project's footprint
will remain after the extraction process concludes. Alterations to the relief might
cause some erosion or landslides, but these are limited to the project implementation
area. Neither the ore nor the exposed soil contains or generates pollutants.
The irreversible changes occurring during operations will change but not
necessarily alter the structure of the local landscape. The degraded technogenic
landscape will consist of a temporarily open area with modified relief, soil deposits,
and a temporarily altered structure that will not regenerate its ecological functions
immediately. This will be primarily determined by the modification of the social-
economic functions of the landscape within the project's footprint. It should be noted
that the alteration of landscape functions is temporary, with the resulting landscape
after rehabilitation being superior in ecological, aesthetic, functional, and social terms
compared to the predominantly agricultural rural landscape currently present.
The project's implementation will cause physical environmental deterioration,
with the in-situ landscape structure being modified. Adjacent lands will experience
negligible or minor indirect changes, particularly to the bio-components of the
physical environment, but the landscape will maintain its functional sustainability.
The main impact on the landscape will be at a local scale (only within the gypsum
quarry development area), affecting visual and aesthetic perception in situ.
Implementing the project will cause environmental damage to the physical
surroundings, and the in-situ landscape structure will undergo modifications.
Adjacent lands will experience indirect and insignificant changes, particularly in
terms of the bio-components of the physical environment, but the landscape will
maintain its functional sustainability. The primary impact on the landscape will occur
at a local scale (in situ), affecting visual and aesthetic perception in the immediate
vicinity and from elevated points within a radius of 500 m – 1000 m.

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