The article discusses the alarming changes in land use and land cover (LULC) driven by human activities, particularly due to population growth and unsustainable practices. These modifications degrade ecosystems and contribute to climate change, manifesting in extreme weather events such as floods and droughts. The LULC changes significantly impact hydrology and biodiversity, with deforestation leading to altered energy balances and increased runoff.
Using remote sensing (RS) and geographic information systems (GIS), the study focuses on Tordzie watershed in Ghana, examining historical LULC changes from 1987 to 2017 and predicting future scenarios for 2030 and 2050 through the CA-Markov model. Findings reveal a significant reduction in vegetation and water bodies alongside increases in settlement and agricultural land. The results indicate a shift towards urbanization due to rising population demands, emphasizing the need for sustainable land use policies to preserve biodiversity and mitigate environmental impacts.
Projected future changes could exacerbate resource conflicts, food insecurity, and health issues due to the decline in ecosystem services. Recommendations include implementing policies for sustainable land management, promoting alternative livelihoods, and focusing on afforestation efforts. The study highlights the critical need for informed decision-making in environmental planning to ensure the sustainability of the watershed and its resources for future generations.
