Temporal analysis of land degradation and urban expansion in central Yunnan Province using remote sensing for supporting sustainable development goals 11/15

Abstract

Monitoring land degradation and urban expansion is crucial for sustainable development and environmental stewardship. It helps protect arable land, ensure food security, mitigate climate change impacts, and guide urban growth while minimizing environmental harm, thus advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).This study focuses on the application of the Trends.Earth tool, following the UN-SDG indicator framework, to assess land changes, urban expansion, and drought vulnerability in the central east region of Yunnan Province, China, during the period 2000 to 2020.The analysis reveals significant trends in land transformation and urban growth. Notably, the central Yunnan region demonstrated a positive trajectory, with 69.58% experiencing land improvement and 8.55% undergoing degradation. Urban areas expanded dramatically, with Kunming City growing threefold from 2000 to 2015 raising concerns about sustainable land management. Drought vulnerability assessments unveil the temporal variation and the extent of impact on the population.This research underscores the importance of remote sensing and its role in achieving the SDGs. By providing a comprehensive assessment of land dynamics, urbanization patterns, and environmental vulnerability. As Yunnan Province grapples with both developmental aspirations and ecological conservation imperatives, this study serves as a foundation for informed decision-making to balance economic growth and environmental protection.

Keywords

• Remote Sensing
• Sustainable Development Goals
• Trends.Earth
• Degradation
• Urban Expansion