Asian Journal of Environment & Ecology

This study aims to: 1) analyse the utilization direction of the Regional Spatial Plan (RTRW) and its influence on land use change in Buntulia Sub-district, Pohuwato Regency; 2) analyse the pattern of land use change in Buntulia Sub-district during the period 2012-2024. This research uses a quantitative descriptive method with a spatial approach through ArcGIS 10.8 software. Data was obtained from overlaying the 2012 and 2024 land use maps and analysing the transition matrix to see the pattern of land use change. The results showed that the implementation of the RTRW direction in Buntulia Sub-district was not optimal. Of the total area of 43,422.71 hectares, 1,877.85 hectares of land use is not in accordance with the RTRW direction. Significant land use change occurred in primary and secondary forest areas that were converted into plantations, mixed agriculture, and open land. Analysis of land use change patterns for the 2012-2024 period revealed an increase in the area of plantations by 231.57 hectares and mixed agriculture by 980.44 hectares, while the area of primary and secondary forests decreased significantly.  The conclusion of this study shows that the dynamics of land use change in Buntulia Sub-district are influenced by a lack of compliance with the RTRW, population growth, and economic development pressures. Strengthening spatial planning policies, stricter supervision, and mitigation are needed to minimise the environmental impact of uncontrolled land use change.