Identification of Deforestation in Protected Forest Areas Using Land Cover mapping (A Case Study of Bukit Suligi Protected Forest)

Abstract

In order to identify deforestation in Protected Forest Areas, land cover mapping has been used as a relevant method. This research aims to identify and map deforestation rates around the Bukit Suligi Protected Forest Area, as well as changes in land cover classes that occurred during the 2015-2022 period. The results showed that the deforestation rate reached 1,362.55 hectares per year or about 10.45% per year, a very alarming figure. This indicates a serious threat to forest sustainability and biodiversity in the area.