Temporal mapping of vegetation cover change in Gazipur district, Bangladesh: a framework for environmental sustainability

This study investigates the intricate dynamics of land transformation and its correlation with rising surface temperatures in Gazipur District, Bangladesh, amid rapid urbanization and climate change. As urban areas attract more inhabitants, Gazipur experiences alarming rates of urbanization, contributing significantly to the Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon. The depletion of water bodies exacerbates this effect, posing severe consequences for the regional climate and environment. Conducted as an integrated study utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS), this research spans the years 2000 to 2021. Landsat 7 & 8 satellite imagery products were employed to analyze land cover changes and recover Land Surface Temperature (LST). Remote sensing techniques enabled the examination of the impact of vegetation cover changes on surface temperature, revealing a strong correlation between LST and land cover classes. Results indicate a substantial reduction in water bodies, decreasing from 33% to 0.01%, and a parallel decline in vegetation cover. These areas are increasingly converted into built-up spaces, contributing to rising temperatures that fluctuate between 28℃ and 35℃. The findings underscore the significance of land cover classes in influencing surface temperature variations. The study not only adds depth to the understanding of Gazipur's evolving landscape but also contributes valuable insights into the intricate relationship between land transformation, urbanization, and climate change.