A geospatial framework for the assessment and monitoring of environmental impacts of agriculture

Abstract

The agriculture sector plays a critical role in global food security and economy, but it is also among the greatest contributors to environmental degradation and global warming through practices such as clearing of forests and wetlands, water management, and use of fertilizers and pesticides. This study proposes a geospatial framework for the systematic assessment and monitoring of environmental impacts of agriculture practices using agri-environmental impact indicators and the environmental impact assessment (EIA) method. Geospatial approaches are identified and synthesized for four key phases of the EIA method: (1) screening; (2) scoping; (3) impact prediction & assessment; and (4) impact management, monitoring & follow up. The study shows the potential of remote sensing and geospatial methods such as mapping, geostatistical interpolation, spectral indices, image classification, multi-criteria decision analysis, and GIS watershed analysis for the different EIA phases. The proposed framework can assess impacts at flexible spatial (within-farm up to the national level) and temporal scales (daily to annual). The framework was exemplified for Canada, where its use could integrate existing programs from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, such as environmental farm plans and agri-environmental indicators. The framework can be used by farmers, farmer organizations, environmental agencies, and consultancies, as well as provincial, territorial and federal agencies.