1University of KwaZulu-Natal, School of Environmental Sciences, Pietermaritzburg Campus, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, South Africa
2South African National Space Agency, Space Operations, P.O. Box 484, Silverton, 0127, Pretoria, South Africa
Abstract
Given the critical role played by urban green spaces and the emergence of remote sensing as a valuable natural resource management tool, this study sought to identify trends in green spaces within the context of South Africa’s transition period (1990 - 2000). Using the city of Port Elizabeth as a case study, three sets of Landsat - 5 Thematic Mapper images (1990, 1995 and 2000) were geo-processed, classified into vegetation density categories and verified using respective aerial photographs. There was a steady decline in areas covered by Very sparse vegetation, Sparse vegetation and Dense vegetation classes. However, areas covered by Very dense vegetation showed a steady increase during the study period. Using remote sensing applications, this study provides an insight into trends in green spaces in the city of Port Elizabeth during the transition period. This study further shows the importance of remote sensing as a mapping tool that can be used to provide information for physical, social and ecological planning to achieve urban socio-ecological sustainability in rapidly changing urban environments.
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