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Exploring using Google Earth Engine and GIS to assess the impacts of climate change and land use change on the Haouzia forest (Morocco)
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1  Department of Geology, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaib Doukkali University, El Jadida, 24000, Morocco
Academic Editor: Mirza Hasanuzzaman

Abstract:

Climate change and land use change are recognized as major global challenges owing to their direct impact on water resources and natural ecosystems. The deforestation process leads to the conversion of forest areas into other land uses, intensifying climate change through increased atmospheric CO2 and modified weather patterns while contributing to soil erosion and biodiversity loss. In this context, effective measures against deforestation require a thorough understanding of the spatiotemporal evolution of forest areas to mitigate its environmental impacts at different scales. Therefore, this study focuses on the Haouzia forest, located north of the city of El Jadida in Morocco, where rapid urban growth has exerted increased pressure on forests and agricultural land. Urban sprawl results in the significant conversion of forest land into urban areas, threatening local biodiversity and disrupting natural ecosystems. To assess and monitor these changes, we adopted an integrated approach combining the Google Earth Engine (GEE), geographic information systems (GIS) and field observations. GEE enables processing large quantities of high-resolution satellite images, facilitating the mapping and monitoring of deforestation over time. Simultaneously, field observations allowed us to understand the local dynamics of land use change better. As a result, we can confirm that the degradation of the Haouzia forest effectively reflects the impact of climate change on land use dynamics and urban expansion in this area. These results underline the importance of this multidisciplinary approach to understanding forest degradation processes and developing more effective and sustainable policies and management practices. Based on accurate and timely data on the state of forest lands and the pressures exerted by urbanization, this study aims to provide policymakers, managers, and local stakeholders with a useful database for preserving local forest ecosystems while promoting sustainable urban development.

Keywords: Deforestation, GEE, GIS, Haouzia forest, Land use
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