Land cover mapping in the Peruvian Andes
In the complex landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, a recent scientific study led by the eoLab, sheds light on the critical necessity for accurate and locally-relevant land cover data. This revelation, stemming from extensive dialogues with stakeholders at both local and national levels, underscores the urgency of addressing the complex management challenges faced by high Andean ecosystems in the era of climate change.
In the Peruvian Andes, accurate land cover products are crucial for effective environmental management. The region's unique topography and the challenges posed by climate change make precise land cover data essential. Local communities and national authorities need this information to make informed decisions about resource management and adaptation strategies. Having accurate land cover data is not just a scientific goal; it's a practical tool for developing resilient strategies to protect the Andean ecosystems from the impacts of climate change.
From this need, Project e-ANDES was born. Dr. Claudia Caro, co-author of the study, emphasizes the importance of the new products and user engagement and co-design approach employed, stating, "The spatial scale of the work and the social validation of the results are important for addressing the management of high Andean ecosystems in the face of climate change." This emphasis leads to a commitment to inclusivity, steering clear of the pitfalls of parachute science. The active involvement of local scientists in every project stage becomes not just beneficial but paramount for success, from co-designing proposals to ensuring continuity post-funding.
As the team considered global products as a potential solution, it quickly became apparent that further refinement was necessary for these products to be relevant and usable locally. This realization sparked the organization of the 'Bridging the Gap' workshop, a collaborative effort with UT Austin, delving into the challenges of translating global products into effective tools for local applications.
Funded by CONCYTEC, the research project yielded two sets of products, co-designed with users: a thematic land cover product and a surface water extent product, incorporating over 150 SAR images. However, it is well known to the eoLab that the availability of these products didn't guarantee adoption, leading to the implementation of capacity-building activities. These initiatives were tailored for a diverse community of users, addressing varied concerns and skill levels.
This project's significant contribution extends beyond the tangible products. It actively shapes the evolving and robust user engagement framework at eoLab, a framework that will soon be presented, providing insights into effective community involvement. Even as the project nears completion, the journey continues, with a persistent focus on strengthening collaboration networks and developing reliable products and data services for stakeholders in the challenging mountainous terrain of the Andes and beyond.
For a deeper dive into the project's details, including its outcomes and impacts, we invite you to explore the publication, a tangible result of the eAndes initiative. This study not only illuminates the challenges faced in the Peruvian Andes but also serves as a reminder for future projects seeking to navigate the delicate balance between the adoption of global products and local relevance.
Read the paper here: https://doi.org/10.3390/rs15133303