UrbanEARS : Urban ecosystem analysis supported by remote sensing.

This project aims at exploring the potential of the combined use of recent multi- and hyperspectral sensors on board satellites and airplanes in combination with structural information derived from LiDAR, for detailed, spatially explicit characterization of morphological and (bio)physical properties of the urban environment. Remote sensing derived information on the characteristics of green and built-up areas will be used to improve the parameterisation of urban biophysical models. As such, we strive at improving the operational value of urban ecosystem services related to temperature and water regulation. The dynamics of the urban environment will be accounted for by linking biophysical modelling approaches (urban climate, hydrology) to urban growth simulation, enabling us to quantitatively assess the (spatial) impact of future urban development on the resilience of the urban ecosystem.

Keywords:Urban resilience, Hyperspectral, LiDAR, Urban hydrology, Urban climate, Urban ecology, Remote sensing

Disciplines:Forestry sciences, Ecology, Environmental science and management, Other environmental sciences