Assessing the effects of different land-use/land-cover input datasets on modelling and mapping terrestrial ecosystem services - Case study Terceira Island (Azores, Portugal)

• DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.6.e69119
• Publication Date: 2021-11-02T12:00:36Z
• Authors: Ina M. Sieber; Malte Hinsch; Marta Vergílio; Artur Gil; Benjamin Burkhard
• Keywords: Land Cover

Modelling ecosystem services (ES) has become a new standard for the quantification and assessment of various ES. Multiple ES model applications are available that spatially estimate supply on basis land-use/land-cover (LULC) input data. This paper assesses how different LULC datasets affect modelling mapping case study Terceira Island, Azores (Portugal), namely: (1) EU-wide CORINE LULC, (2) Region official map (COS.A 2018) (3) remote sensing-based vegetation Island using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery. The InVEST suite was applied, altogether six (Recreation/Visitation, Pollination, Carbon Storage, Nutrient Delivery Ratio, Sediment Ratio Seasonal Water Yield). Model outcomes three were compared in terms similarity, performance applicability user. For some modules, such as Pollination Recreation, differences had limited influence results. based more complex calculations processes, output maps showed skewed distribution supply. Yet, results significant all modules LULCs. Understanding arise between respective effect is imperative when computing model-based maps. choice selecting appropriate data should depend on: 1) research or policy/decision-making question guiding study, 2) ecosystems to be mapped, but also 3) spatial resolution 4) availability at local level. Communication transparency needed, especially if used supporting land use planning decision-making.