Using Geospatial Technologies in Mapping the Distribution and Quality of Ecosystems

Abstract

In the context of present environmental changes, human society is continuously looking for ways to evaluate the status of ecosystems and determine human-induced modifications on their structure and functionality. A clear overview of ecosystems is fundamental in choosing the appropriate measures in our search for sustainability and improving the quality of life. The aim of the chapter is therefore to underline how geography can respond to the need of mapping the distribution and quality of ecosystems. This is easily done by using geospatial technologies, helping to a better understanding of the relation between the spatial distribution and management of ecosystems. The chapter presents the main types of data required by geospatial technologies and the data sources for mapping ecosystems. Challenges in gathering reliable data are also presented besides various methods of overcoming the difficulties. There is a strong emphasis on differentiating the available geospatial technologies for mapping the distribution of ecosystems and for representing their quality. The use of different geospatial technologies in mapping the distribution and quality of specific ecosystems was highlighted through case studies of urban ecosystems, water bodies and forests. We also aimed to identify the causes that determined certain ecosystem approaches, and the potential of geospatial technologies in providing to geographers and other scholars the possibility to explore processes from the past, present, or modeling the future. As geographical assessments require a “cause and effect” approach, we aimed to emphasize how geospatial technologies are used in identifying the causes that determined certain planning policies, shaping the current geographical landscape, the effects of these policies, and the future outcomes of newly implemented or proposed planning policies. The current potential of geospatial technologies gives access to complex diachronic analysis, providing the geographers and other scholars the possibility to explore the various processes that occur in the geographical landscape. The chapter demonstrates how geography and geospatial technologies can help policy and decision makers, local administrations, or stakeholders evaluate the distribution and quality of specific ecosystems.