An approach to differentiate informal settlements using spectral, texture, geomorphology and road accessibility metrics

Abstract

This research distinguishes informal from formal neighborhoods in developing countries by analyzing shape (form), terrain geomorphology, texture, road networks and dominant settlement materials (vegetation, soil, asphalt) to produce a multivariate, spatially explicit evaluation of settlement structure. The principal datasets require only high resolution imagery and elevation data which are both widely available. Ancillary data, field surveys, and dwelling outlines, which are difficult to obtain from developing countries in general, are not required. Twenty-four variables derived from a review of informal settlement and suburban sprawl research describing settlement characteristics were identified and tested for significance. From both discriminant function analysis and regression trees, seven variables were identified to be significant in distinguishing informal and formal settlements using data from Guatemala. Results show promise in using limited data to identify informal settlements in Latin American countries or other less developed nations.