Land Cover and Habitat Classification from Earth Observation Data: A New Approach from BIO_SOS

Abstract

As part of the Biodiversity Multi-Source Monitoring System (BIO_SOS), a new approach to the classification of Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) Land Cover Classification System (LCCS) classes from very high resolution (VHR) remote sensing data has been developed. These classes are also translated to General Habitat Categories (GHCs). Examples of the classification are presented for Cors Fochno in Wales but can be generated for any site where appropriate remote sensing data have been acquired. The system has been developed for operational monitoring of protected areas and their surrounds.