Evaluation of Residential Areas Based on Geoecosystem Unit Characteristics in Banda Aceh

Abstract

In 2005, the residential area in Banda Aceh covered 948.5 ha. Recently, the total residential footprint has expanded significantly to 2,982.12 ha. This study aims to evaluate existing residential land use based on geoecosystem characteristics to ensure alignment with land capacity, thereby enabling the formulation of appropriate zoning for residential development. A quantitative descriptive approach was employed, utilizing spatial analysis through matchingand scoring techniques. This approach characterizeseach geoecosystem unit within the study area and assesses them against standard land suitability criteria for settlements. The findings indicate that among the identified geoecosystem units in Banda Aceh, coastal alluvial plains constitute the largest share at 73.5%, whereas oxbow river geoecosystems represent the smallest portion, accounting for only 0.1% of the total territory. The study concludes that coastal alluvial plains, spanning 3,947.58 ha, possess the ideal geoecosystem characteristics for residential use, making them the most suitable zones for future residential development in Banda Aceh.