2010 land cover map of insular Southeast Asia in 250-m spatial resolution

Abstract

In this letter, we present the methodology and accuracy assessment of a new regional 250-m spatial resolution land cover map of insular Southeast Asia. Nearly 500 daily Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer images (acquired 2 January–3 July 2010) were used in the production of the map. Additionally, peatland maps, elevation information and Daichi-Advanced Land Observing Satellite mosaic data were utilized in the mapping process. The map covers the Malaysian Peninsula and the major islands of Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Sulawesi and Mindanao, in addition to the western part of New Guinea and numerous smaller islands. The classification scheme of 13 classes reflects the special characteristics of land cover of insular Southeast Asia, including, for example, peatswamp forests and large-scale palm plantations. The map was assessed to have 85% overall accuracy using high-resolution (10–30 m) satellite data as reference material. It can therefore be considered to provide reliable information on the current status of land cover in this region experiencing rapid land cover changes.