Prof. Keshav Bhattarai
Section Collection Information
Dear colleagues,
Remote sensing plays a pivotal role in the monitoring and conservation of natural resources, offering a powerful toolset for scientists, conservationists, and policymakers. By utilizing various remote sensing technologies such as satellites, drones, and airborne sensors, we can gather valuable data on the Earth's surface and its dynamic processes. This technology enables us to observe and analyze changes in land use, vegetation health, water quality, and more, providing critical information for sustainable resource management.
Using technology like satellites, drones, and airborne sensors, remote sensing is crucial for keeping an eye on and protecting our natural resources like petroleum, mines, vegetation, and agriculture. It helps scientists, conservationists, and policymakers by providing important information about the Earth's surface and how it's changing.
One major benefit of remote sensing is tracking deforestation and changes in land cover. I have personal experience using this technology for 16 years in forestry in Nepal. Satellite images help us see how much deforestation is happening, find areas in danger, and understand the impact on biodiversity. This information is vital for creating effective conservation plans and preventing the loss of important ecosystems. Chapter 8 in this book is dedicated for that.
Remote sensing also helps monitor water resources. It can spot changes in water levels, identify pollution sources, and check the health of aquatic ecosystems, like the water zones between Southeast Asia and Australia along the Wallace Line. This is crucial for making sure we have clean and enough water for people and the environment. Real-time data is especially important for quick responses to problems, helping minimize the impact on communities and ecosystems.
In summary, remote sensing is a must-have tool for keeping an eye on and preserving our natural resources. Its ability to give us thorough, timely, and cost-effective data helps decision-makers make informed choices for sustainable resource management. As we tackle the challenges of taking care of our resources, remote sensing remains a key part of our efforts to protect the planet's biodiversity and ensure the well-being of present and future generations.
Prof. Keshav Bhattarai
Section Editors