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Impact of Land Use Land Cover Changes on Land Surface Temperature in Greater Kumasi (12967)

Elisha Anankansa, Eyeson Ronald and Benedicta Aniagyei (Ghana)
Mr. Elisha Anankansa
Graduate Research Assistant
KNUST GEOMATIC ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Sandema
Ghana
 
Corresponding author Mr. Elisha Anankansa (email: elishaanankansa22[at]gmail.com, tel.: 0547146649)
 

[ abstract ] [ paper ] [ handouts ]

Published on the web 2025-03-16
Received 2024-12-02 / Accepted n/a
This paper is one of selection of papers published for the FIG Working Week 2025 in Brisbane, Australia PEER REVIEW in Brisbane, Australia and has undergone the FIG Peer Review Process.

FIG Working Week 2025 in Brisbane, Australia PEER REVIEW
ISBN n/a ISSN 2307-4086
URL n/a

Abstract

Rapid urbanization in Greater Kumasi, Ghana, has led to significant alterations in land use and land cover (LULC), which in turn impact local climate conditions and human well-being. This study aims to investigate the relationship between LULC changes and land surface temperature (LST) by applying remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) techniques. Using Landsat satellite imagery from 1986, 2007, and 2023, we comprehensively analyzed LULC transformations and their effects on LST. Our findings indicate a notable expansion in built-up areas by 217.74%, alongside a substantial decline in vegetation cover from 75.15% to 18.51% over the study period. This transformation correlates with a key rise in LST, where built-up regions consistently exhibited the highest temperatures, followed by bare soil and vegetation. The analysis underscores the cooling effects of vegetation and water bodies on LST, highlighting their critical role in moderating urban heat. The implications of this research are significant for urban planning and sustainability initiatives in Greater Kumasi. The results emphasize the urgent need for integrating green infrastructure and sustainable land management practices to mitigate thermal impacts associated with urbanization. Our study contributes valuable insights into the dynamics between LULC changes and LST in urban settings, advocating for the incorporation of green spaces in urban design to enhance thermal comfort and promote sustainability. This research not only fills a crucial knowledge gap regarding the interplay between LULC and LST in Greater Kumasi but also serves as a foundation for future studies to improve urban livability through evidence-based interventions. The findings are particularly relevant for policymakers and urban planners seeking to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and climate change.
 
Keywords: Remote sensing; Spatial planning; land use and land cover (LULC); Land Surface Temperature (LST); Urban Heat Island(UHI)

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