The development of integrated object-based analysis of EO data within UK national land cover products

Abstract

The United Kingdom (UK) undertakes regular surveys of its countryside which are accompanied by national land cover maps derived from Earth Observation data which have exploited the leading edge analysis methods of the day. The Land Cover Map of Great Britain of 1990 was a relatively simple pixel-based classification while the Land Cover Map 2000 adopted an object-based approach. The objects, or land parcels, were derived by automated segmentation of the input image data and had a minimum mapping unit of 0.5 ha. Both of the above land cover products have been extremely successful, with in excess of 300 users. There have of course been problems with these products and these are mainly associated with the data models which were somewhat abstract from reality. Preparations are now underway for a further update of the UK national land cover product which will again be object-based, but this time it is planned that digital cartography will be adapted to give an object structure which more accurately reflect the true structure of the landscape. A feasibility study has demonstrated the key processes required to achieve the generalisation. The use of such a spatial structure will deliver a world leading land cover product which will increase the potential user community and possibilities for integration.