Pacific Mangrove Change Detection
The Pacific Mangrove Change Detection maps, a new initiative in environmental monitoring and data analysis, are providing crucial insights into the state of mangrove ecosystems across the Pacific region. Developed under the MACBLUE project by the implementing partner SPC, this dataset offers a detailed visualisation of mangrove extent changes from 2016 to 2022 in the MACBLUE partner countries: Fiji, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.
Understanding the Pacific Mangrove Change Detection Platform
The Pacific Mangrove Change Detection data, currently in its beta stage, represents a collaborative effort by Digital Earth Pacific and member countries of the Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs). It categorises mangrove extents into closed (high-density), open (lower density), and non-mangrove areas, enabling the analysis of changes in mangrove coverage over time.
Utilising annually derived values of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) applied to cloud-masked Sentinel-2 satellite data, the platform creates the change maps based on the cloud masked satellite imagery (Senitel -2) collected and compiled over the course of 2016 till 2022. Therefore, ensuring accurate and reliable data for tracking environmental changes. The NDVI analysis also allows for the assessment of mangrove health based on the absorption and reflection of infrared light by vegetation, providing insights into the overall condition of mangrove ecosystems.
Applications and Uses
The Pacific Mangrove Change Detection platform holds significant utility across various critical areas. Firstly, it aids in understanding the dynamics of mangrove cover in the Pacific region, assessing drivers of degradation, and identifying areas for potential restoration activities. Moreover, accurate mapping of mangrove extents contributes to national greenhouse gas inventory reporting and National Forest Inventories, essential for sustainable forest management and carbon sequestration initiatives.
Beyond its contributions to greenhouse gas accounting, the dataset can play a vital role in biodiversity conservation and natural shoreline protection. Mangroves serve as crucial habitats for diverse marine and terrestrial species while also providing essential shoreline stabilisation, erosion prevention, and storm surge buffering.
Future Prospects
As the MACBLUE project progresses and undertakes field validation exercises, the Pacific Mangrove Change Detection platform will undergo further validation and refinement. Collaborative efforts with member countries will enhance the accuracy and operational readiness of the tool, ensuring its effectiveness in environmental monitoring and conservation efforts.
The Pacific Mangrove Change Detection platform exemplifies Digital Earth Pacific's commitment to leveraging advanced technology for environmental conservation. As it transitions from beta to operational status, this tool promises to be a pivotal resource for PICTs, facilitating informed decision-making and proactive management of vital mangrove ecosystems.
To view the dataset, please visit: https://digitalearthpacific.org/#/applications