Reflections on linking economic equilibrium models with agent-based models in the context of land use

Linking computable general or partial equilibrium models with agent-based models can combine the strengths of both modeling concepts. The linkage allows to trace global feedback effects while providing a flexible representation of human behavior and social interaction. This linking would facilitate the simulation of interconnected land-use and economic systems while accounting for actors’ heterogeneity, their specializations, and the representation of alternative decision models. In this paper, we examine the chal-lenges that currently hinder the realization of these potential benefits and present a roadmap outlining possible solutions for successful model linkage. The main challenges include: 1) conceptual misalignment between modeling concepts, 2) differences in scales and resolution, 3) difficulties in validation and calibration of linked models, 4) increased complexity in interpreting and communicating results, 5) high demands on computational infrastructure and computational costs, and 6) limited personnel and financial resources. Successfully linking of the two model types and overcoming these challenges requires the modelling communities and stakeholders to engage in long-term, platform-supported dia-logue. This dialogue could facilitate the development of a shared framework for model linkage, standards for model documentation, validation procedures, and appropriate ap-proaches for communicating and evaluating results. This process will enhance the benefits and sustains the linked models while helping determine circumstances in which the ad-vantages of linking models may outweigh the costs