The Analysis of Spatial Distribution Pattern of Ardabil Province ‎Industries ‎by Using Spatial Statistics in GIS Environment

Background and Amis: Unbalanced spatial distribution of industries in most regions of the developing countries, can be have undesirable economic, environmental and social effects. Understanding the spatial distribution patterns of industries is essential for their planning and distribution in the regions.The aim of present study is to analyze the distribution and spatial patterns of Ardabil ‎province industries. Another purpose of this study is to identify the main hubs of ‎industries and the relationship between the spatial distribution of industries with ‎economic, social and environmental variables. Recognition of spatial patterns and ‎spatial behavior of industries is essential for proper spatial planning of the regions. ‎This knowledge helps decision makers and planners to take proper measures.‎ Methodology: This research methods are descriptive and analytic. The statistical population of this research includes 1700 active industrial spaces in Ardebil province. The data of these industrial spaces were obtained from the organization of industry, mining and trade of Ardebil province and recorded in the geographic information system (GIS). In this research, spatial statistical methods such as standard distance, Moran’s spatial correlation index, General G* ord statistical model and geographic weighted regression (GWR) model are used. Findings:The research findings show that: a) the spatial distribution pattern of industries in Ardebil province is highly unbalanced and cluster; b) the geographical distribution of the northern part of the industry; c) the center of gravity of the focus of the industrial spaces towards the central parts of the province , C) Ardebil city is the dominant center of attraction of industrial activities; d) There is a significant relationship between population variables, migration rate, urbanization rate, employment rate in industrial sector, topography and hydrology, with the distribution pattern of industries. Conclusion: As a result, the distribution of industries in the province of Ardebil is clustered and unbalanced. At the end, recommendations are presented based on research findings.