500M spatial resolution land cover map in insular Southeast Asia

Abstract

In this paper we first present the methodology and accuracy assessment of a 500m spatial resolution land cover map in insular Southeast Asia. This is followed by an analysis of the usability of the map for monitoring of deforestation/forest degradation. The map was produced using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) images (acquired 1st Jan-2 nd Jul 2007), elevation information and peatland maps. The map covers the Malaysian Peninsula and the major islands of Sumatra, Java and Borneo, in addition to numerous smaller islands. The classification scheme of 12 classes reflects the special characteristics of land cover in insular Southeast Asia. We conclude that the map is suitable for monitoring the extent of forest cover in this region, but it misses the important aspect of forest degradation due to its inability to present varying forest degradation levels. Further development of the methodology is in progress to overcome this limitation. ©2009 IEEE.