Modeling and Predicting Forest Dynamics and Their Impacts on Ecosystem Services

Publication Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date (Issue Year)

2025

Journal Name

Application of Geospatial Technology and Modelling on Natural Resources Management

Abstract

This chapter provides a detailed examination of modeling and predicting forest dynamics and their impacts on ecosystem services, emphasizing the critical role of forests in sustaining global ecological health and human well-being. Forests, often termed the planet’s lungs, deliver essential ecosystem services that are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic pressures and climate change. It articulates the necessity for robust modeling techniques that integrate ecological principles with spatial data analysis to forecast forest responses to various environmental and management scenarios. The overall goal is to equip stakeholders with the knowledge necessary to navigate the challenges of forest conservation and management in a rapidly changing environment, ultimately contributing to the preservation of vital ecosystem services for future generations. The methodology involves a comprehensive literature review, utilizing databases such as Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science to gather relevant peer-reviewed articles. The selected studies encompass a range of modeling approaches, including empirical, mechanistic, and hybrid models, each offering unique insights into forest dynamics. These models are essential for simulating processes such as tree growth, mortality, and regeneration, facilitating proactive forest management strategies. Furthermore, the chapter discusses the drivers of forest change, including climate variability, soil characteristics, and human activities, highlighting their complex interactions and cumulative effects on forest ecosystems. By integrating remote sensing and GIS, the research underscores advancements in data collection that enhance the accuracy and efficiency of forest monitoring. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding forest dynamics to inform sustainable management practices and policy-making.

Keywords

Modeling, Predicting Forest Dynamics, Impacts, Ecosystem Services

Rsif Scholar Name

Nasradeen Adam Hamed Gadallah

Rsif Scholar Nationality

Sudan

Cohort

Cohort 3

Thematic Area

Climate Change

Africa Host University (AHU)

University Felix Houphouët-Boigny (U-FHB), Côte d'Ivoire

Share

COinS