Name Jaison

Surname Muntanga

Student Number L0212856Z

Format Block

Program Honors Degree in Geography and Population Studies

Module Application of Gis and Remote Sensing.

Lecturer B Khumalo

Assignment 1 Discuss the application of Gis and remote sensing in any field
of your choice (25)

Deadline 10 April 2024.

Introduction

Remote sensing provides a vast amount of data, including satellite imagery, aerial photographs,
and hyper spectral data, which can be used to monitor natural resources such as forests,
agriculture, water bodies, and land use patterns. An effective technique for keeping a close watch
on natural resources like water bodies, farms, forests, and land use patterns is remote sensing. It
offers several different kinds of data, such as hyperspectral data, aerial photos, and satellite
photography. The Earth's surface can be seen in high resolution using satellite images, but aerial
photos have a higher spatial resolution. For precise terrain mapping, LIDAR technology offers
high-resolution elevation data. Surface variations can be tracked using radar imaging, and surface
temperature can be measured using thermal infrared data. Vegetation indices such as the
Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), offer details on photosynthetic activity and the
overall health of the vegetation. Data on soil moisture and water quality are used to evaluate water
quality indicators and estimate soil moisture content. Time-series data makes it possible to analyze
changes in the environment. Meaningful information is extracted from large data sets using
techniques like data mining and machine learning. By utilizing these diverse remote sensing data
sources, natural resource managers gain valuable insights into the state and dynamics of
ecosystems, enabling evidence-based decision-making for sustainable resource management and
conservation efforts.

With remote sensing and GIS, changes in natural resources can be monitored over time. This
includes tracking deforestation, urbanization, land degradation, or changes in water bodies, which
allows for timely assessments of the environment's health [Yusuf, and Jauro, 2024). Remote
sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) play a crucial role in monitoring and
assessing changes in natural resources over time. Here's a more detailed explanation of how they
enable this process. Remote sensing data, including satellite images and aerial photographs, can
monitor shifts in the forest cover and identify instances of deforestation. The data is analysed
using GIS to reveal information on the size and location of deforested areas. Understanding the
rate of deforestation and its effects on biodiversity and carbon storage is made easier with the use
of this information [Md Jelas et al 2024].

Soil erosion, desertification, and salinization are examples of processes that can be evaluated
using remote sensing data, such as satellite imaging and soil moisture readings. Mapping and
evaluating these alterations with the use of GIS makes it easier to identify the causes of land
degradation [Yusuf, and Jauro, 2024). GIS and remote sensing are useful tools for tracking
alterations in water bodies, including lakes, wetlands, and rivers. They are able to monitor changes
in the shoreline, water levels, and the locations most vulnerable to pollution or water scarcity. This
makes it possible to quickly assess and address new environmental problems like natural disasters,
disagreements over land use, or ecological changes (AbdelRahman 2023). Researchers and
planners can examine long-term patterns in changes to natural resources by utilizing historical
remote sensing imagery. It is essential to comprehend the cumulative consequences of human
activity on the environment from this historical perspective. Using GIS and remote sensing, it is
possible to gather baseline data that will serve as a point of comparison in the future. When
assessing the success of conservation and management initiatives, baseline data is crucial [Yusuf,
and Jauro, 2024)

Integration and analysis of different spatial datasets, including data from remote sensing, are made
possible by GIS. Thorough understanding of the interactions and effects of various environmental
influences on natural resources is offered by this geographical analysis [Yusuf, and Jauro, 2024).
The development of conservation and management strategies heavily relies on GIS data and
remote sensing. They offer data supported by evidence to help with decisions on how to allocate
resources, designate areas as protected areas, and implement sustainable development plans. GIS
visualizations and remote sensing can be used to inform communities and stakeholders about
environmental changes. Participating local communities in the monitoring process can increase
public knowledge of environmental issues and promote a sense of accountability and ownership
for natural resources (Yusuf, and Jauro, 2024)

Remote sensing helps in identifying and monitoring habitats, endangered species, and changes in
biodiversity patterns. GIS enables the integration of various data layers to prioritize conservation
efforts (Dhabekar, 2022). Biodiversity conservation using remote sensing and Geographic
Information Systems (GIS) is a powerful approach that allows for the monitoring, analysis, and
protection of biodiversity and ecosystems. Remote sensing and GIS provide valuable tools to
assess biodiversity patterns, detect changes in habitats, and design effective conservation strategies
(Schmidt et al 2021). For example remote sensing data, including high-resolution satellite imagery
and aerial photographs, can be used to map and monitor different habitat types, such as forests,
wetlands, grasslands, and coral reefs [Yusuf, and Jauro, 2024).

Using GIS to handle and analyses these data might help reveal important information about the
distribution and alterations of habitats across time [Katkani, et al 2022]. To generate models of a
species' distribution, remote sensing and GIS data can be combined with records of the species'
occurrences. These models aid in identifying regions of high biodiversity value and forecasting the
probable distribution of species across landscapes. In addition, regions with unusually high levels
of endemism and species richness are known as biodiversity hotspots, and they can be found using
remote sensing and GIS. Setting protected area boundaries and prioritizing conservation activities
are made easier with the use of this data. (Deb et al 2022).

By tracking changes in forest cover and wildlife habitats, remote sensing and GIS can help detect
illicit activities such as poaching and logging. GIS and remote sensing can be used to monitor and
identify invasive species, assisting in the control and eradication activities necessary to preserve
native biodiversity [Ouchra et al 2024]. Using remote sensing and GIS, one may track changes in
temperature, precipitation, and land cover to evaluate how climate change is affecting biodiversity.
Conservationists and policymakers can guarantee the long-term protection of ecosystems and the
species they support by utilizing remote sensing and GIS technologies in biodiversity
conservation. This allows them to make well-informed decisions and establish effective
conservation plans [Ouchra et al 2024]. By using data-driven and more effective methods, these
tools help protect biodiversity for future generations.

In addition to monitoring logging activities, remote sensing can quantify forest biomass, detect
early signs of disease, and assess the health of the forest [Yusuf, and Jauro, 2024). Using GIS
makes it easier to trace illicit logging, locate good sites for forests, and create management plans.
The use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing in forest management has
completely changed how forests are seen, examined, and managed sustainably. In order to
guarantee the long-term sustainability of forest ecosystems, these technologies provide invaluable
tools for evaluating the health of forests, tracking changes over time, and making well-informed
decisions. (Mapuru et al 2023).

Using satellite or aerial imagery, remote sensing offers a thorough perspective of forested areas.
By integrating this data with other spatial data, GIS makes it possible for forest managers to carry
out precise and current forest inventories [Ouchra et al 2024]. Forest managers can use remote
sensing to identify changes in the forest cover over time. They can recognize illicit logging,
deforestation, and other problems with time-series imagery. GIS facilitates prompt actions by
assisting in the analysis of the magnitude and spatial distribution of these changes (Dhabekar
2022). Data from remote sensing, including multispectral and hyperspectral photography, can be
utilized to evaluate the health of forests. Forest managers are able to identify illnesses, pest
infestations, and the impacts of drought because to the unique spectral signatures that unhealthy or
stressed plant displays[ Katkani, et al 2022].

The detection and observation of forest fires is greatly aided by remote sensing. Drones and
satellites equipped with thermal sensors are able to detect and evaluate the spread of active flames.
GIS helps in planning fire prevention methods, identifying sensitive locations, and creating maps
of fire risk [Katkani, et al 2022]. Mapping Forest Biodiversity and Important Habitats for
Endangered Species: GIS and remote sensing are useful tools for mapping forest biodiversity
[Polyviou, and Zamani, 2023]. This data guarantees that forest management plans take ecological
variety into account and helps conservation efforts. The volume and biomass of timber can be
estimated using remote sensing data, particularly LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data
[Yusuf, and Jauro, 2024). Planning for future harvests and sustainable timber harvesting both
benefit from this data [Ouchra et al 2024]. Using GIS makes it easier to incorporate data from
remote sensing into land use planning. It aids in the definition of various forest management
zones, including protected reserves, production forests, and conservation areas. GIS and remote
sensing are used to measure and track the stocks of carbon in forests. Countries taking part in
global initiatives to mitigate climate change, such as Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and
Forest Degradation (REDD+), depend on this data [ Baral, S., 2023].

Remote sensing can monitor water bodies, track changes in water levels, detect water pollution,
and assess water quality [Ouchra et al 2024]. GIS facilitates the analysis of hydrological data and
aids in water resource planning. Water resource management using remote sensing and
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is essential for ensuring the sustainable use and
conservation of water, which is a finite and critical natural resource [Baban, 2022]. Remote
sensing and GIS technologies provide valuable tools for monitoring, assessing, and managing
water resources effectively.

Data on water levels, extent, and distribution can be obtained by remote sensing satellite
monitoring water bodies including rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. This data can be integrated with
other geographical data using GIS to produce intricate maps of water resources [Yusuf, and Jauro,
2024). Monitoring of Water Quality: Turbidity and other water quality characteristics can be found
using remote sensing. Data from remote sensing can identify alterations in the state of the land
surface, including vegetation health and soil moisture, which are crucial for monitoring drought
and flood events. GIS can analyze and visualize this data to support early warning systems
[Polyviou, and Zamani, 2023].

Land subsidence brought on by groundwater extraction can be evaluated using remote sensing
methods like Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR). Next, groundwater resources are
modelled and managed sustainably using GIS [Katkani, et al 2022]. By tracking crop water stress,
evapotranspiration rates, and irrigation techniques, remote sensing and GIS aid in the assessment
of agricultural water use efficiency. This knowledge aids in agricultural water use optimization
[Polyviou, and Zamani, 2023]. GIS is used to map and examine water infrastructure, including
treatment facilities, canals, and pipelines. This helps with water supply system expansion, upkeep,
and planning [Cianciullo et al 2023]. The effects of climate change on water resources, including
variations in precipitation patterns, snowmelt, and glacial melt, can be evaluated with the use of
remote sensing and GIS [Yu et al 2023]. Developing adaptation plans and building a resilient
future in the face of global climate change require this information.

Effective land use planning is made possible by the combination of remote sensing data with GIS,
which takes into account variables including conservation areas, infrastructural development, and
environmental sensitivity [Azad, and Wang, 2021]. Land use planning heavily relies on data from
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing. Making wise choices on the proper
use of land is known as land use planning, and it entails minimizing negative effects on the
environment, promoting sustainable development, and meeting the demands of economies and
communities. Accurate and up-to-date variety of land cover types, such as forests, urban areas,
agricultural land, aquatic bodies, and natural ecosystems, are categorized using remote sensing
imagery, such as satellite or aerial imaging. Then, these land cover datasets are managed, stored,
and examined using GIS [Polyviou, and Zamani, 2023].

The possible environmental effects of suggested land use changes are evaluated with the use of
remote sensing and GIS data. To make better selections, planners might examine variables
including water quality, habitat fragmentation, and soil erosion. To carry out suitability analysis,
GIS can combine a variety of datasets, such as topography, soil types, and land cover. This aids in
locating regions appropriate for particular land uses, such as farming, building infrastructure, or
conservation [Katkani, et al 2022]. Transportation networks, utility services, and other
infrastructure elements that affect land use planning are analysed using remote sensing and GIS.
This facilitates the best possible placement and design of infrastructure projects [Polyviou, and
Zamani, 2023]. Zoning maps may be made that show the various land use zones and the rules that
go along with them. This guarantees that development operations are properly scheduled and
managed.

Data from remote sensing can be used to identify regions that are more susceptible to the effects of
climate change, such as rising sea levels or a higher chance of wildfires. Decisions on land use are
informed by this information to increase resilience. To identify and prioritize regions for
conservation initiatives, remote sensing and GIS are essential tools [Birhanu, 2023]. They support
the identification of hotspots for biodiversity, vital habitats, and wildlife-friendly ecological
corridors. The accuracy, effectiveness, and sustainability of decision-making are improved when
remote sensing and GIS data are integrated into land use planning [Katkani, et al 2022]. Planners
can balance conflicting land use demands, make better decisions, and produce plans that support
sustainable development and safeguard natural resources by utilizing these tools.

In conclusion, better decision-making, well-informed policy development, and a more sustainable

use of Earth's resources are made possible by the integration of remote sensing and GIS in natural
resource management. These technologies are still developing and are essential for
comprehending and solving environmental problems. Remote sensing and GIS can be used to deal
with these important restricted assets in a practical and efficient manner as a result of the
increasing strain on normal assets due to the growing human population. Geographical data is
extremely helpful in identifying and analyzing the factors that affect how these assets are used.
Consequently, with a detailed understanding of these factors, decisions that ensure the sustainable
use of regular resources to address the problems facing both present and future generations can be
made.

References

Md Jelas, I., Zulkifley, M.A., Abdullah, M. and Spraggon, M., 2024. Deforestation detection using
deep learning-based semantic segmentation techniques: a systematic review. Frontiers in Forests
and Global Change, 7, p.1300060.

AbdelRahman, M.A., 2023. An overview of land degradation, desertification and sustainable land
management using GIS and remote sensing applications. Rendiconti Lincei. Scienze Fisiche e
Naturali, 34(3), pp.767-808.

Yusuf, M.B. and Jauro, U.A., 2024. Impact of Land Use and Land Cover Change on Deforestation
in the Central Taraba State: A Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing Analysis.
Environmental Protection Research, pp.30-41.

Dhabekar, A.K., 2022. Integrated Technologies for Effective Wildlife Monitoring in India: A
Proposed System. Research Gate.

Schmidt, A.M., Van der Sluis, T., van Swaay, C., Mücher, C.A., Hazeu, G.W., Henkens, R.J.H.G.,
Verweij, P.J.F.M., Decleer, K., Bijlsma, R.J. and Jongman, R.H.G., 2021. Improving the
availability of data and information on species, habitats and sites: Focus Area A, Guidance on the
application of existing scientific approaches, methods, tools and knowledge for a better
implementation of the Birds and Habitat Directives. European Commission

Deb, S., Imdad, K., Patel, P.P., Sahul, W., Parween, S., Rashid, R. and Rihan, M., 2022.
Approaches and methodologies on mapping vegetation cover and biodiversity status using remote
sensing and spatial analysis: A systematic review. Conservation, Management and Monitoring of
Forest Resources in India, pp.379-408.

Baban, S.M., 2022. The suitability of satellite remote sensing and GIS technologies for mapping,
monitoring and managing water resources in the Middle East. In Satellite Monitoring of Water
Resources in the Middle East (pp. 29-47). Cham: Springer International Publishing.

Birhanu, E., 2023. Reviewing Assessment of Surface Water Potential and Irrigation Development
in Ethiopia: Opportuni-ties and Challenges in Harnessing Water Resources for Agricultural
Development. GSJ, 11(10).

Katkani, D., Babbar, A., Mishra, V.K., Trivedi, A., Tiwari, S. and Kumawat, R.K., 2022. A review
on applications and utility of remote sensing and geographic information systems in agriculture
and natural resource management. Int. J. Environ. Clim. Change, 12, pp.1-18.Remoteness

Ouchra, H., Belangour, A. and Erraissi, A., 2024, January. Unsupervised Learning for Land Cover
Mapping of Casablanca Using Multispectral Imaging. In 2024 ASU International Conference in
Emerging Technologies for Sustainability and Intelligent Systems (ICETSIS) (pp. 1841-1847).
IEEE.

Azad, A. and Wang, X., 2021. Land use change ontology and traffic prediction through recurrent
neural networks: A case study in Calgary, Canada. ISPRS International Journal of Geo-
Information, 10(6), p.358.

Cianciullo, S., Attorre, F., Trezza, F.R., Rezende, M., Ntumi, C., Campira, J., Munjovo, E.T.,
Timane, R.D., Riccardi, T. and Malatesta, L., 2023. Analysis of land cover dynamics in
Mozambique (2001–2016). Rendiconti Lincei. Scienze Fisiche e Naturali, 34(1), pp.81-92.

Baral, S., 2023. Comparative evaluation of Microwave and Optical Images for Land Use and Land
Cover Classification (Doctoral dissertation, University of Salzburg, Austria).

Yu, Z., Han, Q., Wang, H., Guo, B., Zhou, X., Song, X. and Lu, Z. eds., 2023. Data Science: 9th
International Conference of Pioneering Computer Scientists, Engineers and Educators, ICPCSEE
2023, Harbin, China, September 22–24, 2023, Proceedings, Part I. Springer Nature.

Polyviou, A. and Zamani, E.D., 2023. Are we nearly there yet? A desires & realities Framework
for Europe’s AI strategy. Information Systems Frontiers, 25(1), pp.143-159.

Mapuru, M.J., Xulu, S. and Gebreslasie, M., 2023. Remote Sensing Applications in Monitoring
Poplars: A Review. Forests, 14(12), p.2301.

Dhabekar, A.K., 2022. Integrated Technologies for Effective Wildlife Monitoring in India: A
Proposed System. Research Gate.