Today is not the era when security is provided by building walls only, but a technology-based system is required to monitor and analyse the events on Earth.
Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing are advanced systems acting as a substitution to the traditional security system for the Earth. Remote sensing is a method to use satellites, sensors and aeroplanes to collect data (here images) about Earth. The imagery data, by the remote sensor, is served to GIS. It is a system (consisting of both hardware and software) that integrates and analyse these data. These analysed data are helpful to decide on sustainable development, acknowledging global threats and design networks of protected areas.
On learning about methods to collect geographical data, the question of its validation and application arises. Let us start with the information on valid organisations. The Centre for Ecological Research and Forestry Applications (CREAF) has the highest degree of expertise in the field of GIS and Remote Sensing. Locate in Catalonia, CREAF is a public research institute that has a separate research group, GRUMETS. They analyse the data, both qualitatively and quantitatively, and deal with errors (if any).
Let us move on to its applications.
Regional Mapping: Updated data is collected using remote sensing technology, served to the GIS system for imagery information. With these data road maps, its condition and other factors are monitored continuously. Various departments use this information, such as regional planners, responsible for the development of different regions. Google Map is an excellent example of this case.
Environmental Analysis:Data collected can be helpful in the study of various environmental conditions- deforestation, eutrophication, conservation of natural resources, wildfire and oil spillage, used to study the impact of human activities on the environment. Various countries use the data collected by remote sensors to warn citizens about upcoming natural calamities too- cyclones, storms, etc.
Natural Resource Analysis: It is helpful to obtain updated data regarding geological maps and tectonic maps. This collected data is beneficial for the study of natural resource management by identifying sites for mineral and fossil fuel deposits. It is also helpful to maintain forests and monitor the geographical distribution of water.
Agricultural Benefits: Analysing the soil can increase crop production. Data obtained from Remote sensing and GIS system can help us manage irrigation systems by determining the availability of water in the given region. In addition, it is helpful for pest control systems as it maps the infected areas in the field.
