Environmental Layers
Definition
Environmental Layers in GIS represent thematic datasets related to ecosystems, climate, hydrology, land use, biodiversity, and pollution. They enable analysis of environmental conditions, threats, and trends over space and time.
Application
Scientists use environmental layers to study climate change, habitat loss, and water quality. Conservation groups model species distribution. Policymakers assess land suitability. GIS platforms allow the combination of layers for suitability analysis, environmental risk mapping, and scenario testing.
FAQ
What are examples of environmental layers?
Land cover, temperature, precipitation, soil type, elevation, pollution, vegetation indices.
Why are they important?
They provide context for ecological, climate, and resource planning decisions.
How are they used in GIS?
For overlay analysis, modeling, and visualization of environmental processes.
Where do the data come from?
Satellite imagery, ground monitoring, climate models, and environmental agencies.