Building capacity in remote sensing for conservation: present and future challenges

Abstract

Remote sensing (RS) has made significant contributions to conservation and ecology; however, direct use of RS‐based information for conservation decision making is currently very limited. In this paper, we discuss the reasons and challenges associated with using RS technology by conservationists and suggest how training in RS for conservationists can be improved. We present the results from a survey organized by the Conservation Remote Sensing Network to understand the RS expertise and training needs of various categories of professionals involved in conservation research and implementation. The results of the survey highlight the main gaps and priorities in the current RS data and technology among conservation practitioners from academia, institutions, NGOs and industry. We suggest training to be focused around conservation questions that can be addressed using RS‐derived information rather than training pure RS methods which are beyond the interest of conservation practitioners. We highlight the importance of developing essential biodiversity variables (EBVs) and how this can be achieved by increasing the RS capacity of the conservation community. Moreover, we suggest that open‐source software is adopted more widely in the training modules to facilitate access to RS data and products in developing countries, and that online platforms providing mapping tools should also be more widely distributed. We believe that improved RS capacity among conservation scientists will be essential to improve conservation efforts on the ground and will make the conservation community a key player in the definition of future RS‐based products that serve conservation and ecological needs.

Parched pines: a quantitative comparison of two multi‐year droughts and associated mass mortalities of bishop pine (Pinus muricata) on Santa Cruz Island, California

“…Lastly, change detection methods reliant on a threshold are highly sensor-and site-dependent; our methods maintain broad applicability by tracking relative changes in each VI Verbesselt et al 2010;Fraser et al 2011;Vogelmann et al 2012;Forkel et al 2013). Ultimately, we found that the processing capacity and speed afforded us by Google Earth Engine addressed key limitations currently present in this field (Palumbo et al 2017). We hope the increased adoption of this free tool will expand the use of a greater number of images and the analysis of multiple VIs in future remote sensing studies.…”

“…Ultimately, we found that the processing capacity and speed afforded us by Google Earth Engine addressed key limitations currently present in this field (Palumbo et al. ). We hope the increased adoption of this free tool will expand the use of a greater number of images and the analysis of multiple VIs in future remote sensing studies.…”

Conservation impacts of a near real‐time forest monitoring and alert system for the tropics

“…Training practitioners to use high-level products, such as those delivered in NRT monitoring and alert systems, facilitates the use of remote sensing data for conservation applications (Palumbo et al 2016). Providing hands-on capacity building in the manipulation and analysis of GIS and remote sensing data may significantly enhance an end-user's ability to effectively incorporate these data into their business practices.…”

Remote Sensing Training in Ecology and Conservation – challenges and potential

“…Palumbo et al. () also highlight the key priorities and challenges for conservation professionals in relation to capacity development using the results of a survey, organized by the Conservation Remote Sensing Network. Specifically, the authors unveil the need for training in RS to focus on ecological questions, methods to analyse RS‐derived products and how to derive indicators and relevant environmental variables (e.g.…”

“…Importantly, a number of academic conservation programmes now provide tailored RS teaching or use 'service modules' to provide RS skills to conservation professionals, which shows recognition of the importance of RS in conservation in Africa. Palumbo et al (2017) also highlight the key priorities and challenges for conservation professionals in relation to capacity development using the results of a survey, organized by the Conservation Remote Sensing Network. Specifically, the authors unveil the need for training in RS to focus on ecological questions, methods to analyse RSderived products and how to derive indicators and relevant environmental variables (e.g.…”