Geographic Information System Technology Research Articles

On-Site Determination of Soil Organic Carbon Content: A Photocatalytic Approach

This investigation presents a new approach for evaluating soil organic carbon (SOC) content in farming soils using a photocatalytic chemical oxygen demand (PeCOD) analyzer combined with geographic information system (GIS) technology for spatial analysis. Soil samples were collected at various sites throughout Canada and were analyzed using sieve analysis, followed by further SOC evaluation using three distinct techniques: loss on ignition (LOI), Walkley-Black, and PeCOD. The PeCOD system, which relies on the photochemical oxidation of organic carbon, showed an exciting correlation between its evaluations and SOC content, making it a prompt and reliable method to evaluate SOC. In this investigation, finer materials such as clayey soils (soil fractions of (<50 µm)) demonstrated high SOC content compared to coarser ones (soil fractions of (>75 µm)) and decreased SOC content with increased soil depth, generally below the 30 cm mark. It should be noted that this investigation revealed that other variables, such as land management practices, precipitation, and atmospheric temperature, have drastic effects on the formation and residence time of SOC. GIS georeferencing еnablеd mapping of the SOC distribution and identification of hotspot areas with high SOC content. The results of this study have implications for sustainable farming, climate change mitigation, and soil health operations by providing farmers with schemes that amplify carbon sequestration while simultaneously improving soil health.

Using fuzzy analytical hierarchy process for road transportation services management based on remote sensing and GIS technology

Abstract The importance of site selection for road transportation management and emergency services has been underscored, particularly in the wake of the global Covid-19 pandemic in addition to road accident injuries, which emphasized the need for swift patient, injured and wounded peoples transfer to hospitals. As a result, comprehensive road transportation management is essential during crises to ensure the safety and convenience of road users. To achieve effective road network management, a robust database is imperative. The aim of this study is to employ multi-criteria decision analysis with the aid of Geographical Information System (GIS) technology and remote sensing for the optimization of site selection for traffic signals, fire stations, and emergency services in Kafr El-Sheikh city, Egypt. The methodology incorporates two different methods which are Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (F-AHP) and the spline transformation method. The integration of Fuzzy set theory with AHP principles has given rise to a variant of AHP known as F-AHP. F-AHP combines qualitative and quantitative approaches. Fuzzy logic handles situations that are vague or poorly defined by assigning numerical values. Through the F-AHP approach, criteria that decision-makers unanimously deem “absolutely not important” in comparison to others are eliminated, allowing them to focus on the most significant criteria. As a case study, an Egyptian city was selected to apply these techniques. The results revealed multiple sites that were identified and selected through the applied analytical methods. These selected sites were also marked on the city map and verified in reality.

Application of GIS and Artificial Intelligence in Military Operations: Prospects and Challenges

Geographic Information System (GIS) and Remote Sensing have been considered significant in the military due to their spatiality in nature. Recent military developments have seen various military institutions depending on spatial mapping tools, for the purpose of command, control, communication and coordination in military operations. In this study, the qualitativeanalytical method was used to illustrate the applications of GIS in military operations, drawing lessons from land based military developments from selected studies. An online survey was conducted to extract information from a sample of forty (40) students undertaking War Studies at the University of Zimbabwe, who were conveniently selected for the study. In-depth interviews were also done with two (2) military experts from the university. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative interpretation of recent developments in military GIS. The benefits of GIS and machine learning in military operations included access to information; improved data management; information dissemination; improved terrain analysis; object, target or pattern recognition; quick data processing algorithms; autonomous systems; and predictive analysis. The study also notes some challenges associated with GIS and machine learning in military operations include expensive to set up which constituted of respondents; training requirements; cyber-security; software issues; offensive in nature, as well as misinterpretation of situations. The study recommends the need for human-AI collaboration and the development of a regulatory framework at national, regional and international level in ensuring sustainable implementation of GIS technology in military operations.

The practical aspects of remote land sensing study of the causes of water penetration on ground hydraulic structures

This article is devoted to the application of remote sensing in the context of the natural and technical geosystem of the Dniester PSPP. The main emphasis is placed on the use of geographic information systems (GIS) and thermographic data to determine the factors that may cause abnormal thermal load on hydraulic structures. The study is aimed at identifying and analysing temperature gradients that may influence the occurrence of thermal anomalies. The study is aimed at identifying potential causes, mechanisms and factors affecting water manifestations. The subject of the analysis is also the relationship between the temperature gradient on the surface of structures and the presence of water leakage, as well as the impact of temperature on geological, hydrological and engineering systems of the structure. The analysis process is based on the interpretation of thermographic data reflecting the local heating of the surface of the hydraulic structure and the geotechnical characteristics of the soils, taking into account the design features of the hydraulic structure The research provides valuable insights that can be used to optimise the design and construction of earthen dams. Analysis of thermal processes is an important step in understanding and predicting their impact on the geological structure and hydrogeological properties of the environment. Man-made soils placed in the protective layers of a dam are subject to significant uneven heating. Keywords: geoecology, constructive geography, geosystems, river-basin systems, river-valley landscapes, river natural and technical systems, landscape technical systems, landscape engineering systems, GIS technologies, Dniester PSPP, remote sensing, thermo map, GNSS.

The whole world in your hands: explorations in sustainability education using geospatial tools

This paper describes the integration of geographic information system (GIS) technology in a high school environmental science classroom, specifically examining the impact of GIS technology on student engagement, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning for Education for Sustainability (EfS). This environmental science classroom utilized ArcGIS Online and StoryMaps to facilitate hands-on learning, enabling students to explore spatial relationships, analyze data, and communicate insights to foster engagement and critical thinking. This GIS technology promotes interdisciplinary learning by connecting essential environmental issues with location and other social factors. Students deepen their understanding of human-environment interactions by interpreting spatial data, empowering them to propose sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. Using ArcGIS Online and StoryMaps, students engaged in guided lessons, explored sustainability topics, and created their own StoryMaps based on the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The findings highlight positive engagement, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning impacts. Students demonstrated increased interest, understanding of complex issues, and developed analytical skills through spatial data analysis. The approach encouraged interdisciplinary thinking and expanded awareness of ongoing environmental challenges, supporting EfS goals.

USE OF MODERN GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (GIS) IN MAPPING NATURE NETWORKS

Nature conservation is crucial for preserving biodiversity, ecosystems, and the overall health of our planet. In recent years, modern Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology has revolutionized the way we map, analyze, and manage natural environments. This article will delve into the role of GIS technology in enhancing nature conservation efforts, highlighting its benefits, applications. By harnessing the power of GIS, conservationists can better understand and protect the intricate networks of nature, ensuring the sustainability of our planet for future generations.

Study of the modern reclamation and ecological state of soils in Azerbaijan

For many years in the Republic of Azerbaijan, numerous reclamation and ecological measures aimed at attracting agricultural lands of natural cenoses to use in agrocenoses were carried out. The soils of the studied territory are quite unique in terms of their soil-forming structure and ecological conditions, and they differ from other regions of the country in terms of irrigation water content. The article reflects some important results of soil and water studies conducted over the last years. Determining the qualitative composition of groundwater and irrigation water in different seasons of the year using modern methods is relevant from an environmental and reclamation point of view. Based on remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) technologies, our research is based on the analysis of natural and anthropogenic landscape changes and changes in natural conditions as a result of agricultural development in the 20 km buffer zone along the banks of Kura and Araz rivers. As a result of the conducted research, it was determined that the rapid growth of the population has caused the reduction of the area of agro-landscapes, the salinization of the soil, the drying of the water in the water basins, the expansion of the construction areas. This has disrupted the natural balance.

Interaction of drought-influencing factors for drought mitigation strategies in Lam Ta Kong Watershed, Khorat Plateau

Generally, drought is influenced by both spatial characteristics and anthropogenic activities within an area. Drought vulnerability assessment is a critical tool that can be effectively used to develop proper drought mitigation strategies to prevent avoidable losses. To develop suitable drought mitigation strategies, the overall drought vulnerability must be assessed, and the interaction among drought-influencing factors in the area should be considered. Consequently, this study aimed to investigate the interactions among critical drought-influencing factors and drought vulnerability in the Lam Ta Kong Watershed via spatial analysis with the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and geographical information system (GIS) technology. Ten drought-influencing factors were considered in the vulnerability assessment: slope, elevation, soil texture, soil fertility, stream density, precipitation, temperature, precipitation days, evaporation, and land use. The results indicated that the critical drought-influencing factors were precipitation, precipitation days, and land use, resulting in most of the watershed experiencing high drought vulnerability (35.1% of the watershed or 1810.83 km2). Moreover, this research highlighted the interactions among the critical drought-influencing factors. Precipitation interacted with precipitation days to cause drought vulnerability across the watershed, with a p-value <0.05. Similarly, the interactions between precipitation and land use and between precipitation days and land use, with p-values <0.05, showed that they were associated with and influenced by drought in the Lam Ta Kong Watershed. This study further indicated that appropriate drought mitigation strategies for this watershed must consider the interactions among these drought-influencing factors, as well as their specific interactions across the watershed.

Geographic Information Systems for Water Quality Modeling in the Zhytomyr District Communities

Abstract To ensure safe and quality drinking water for residents of rural settlements who use their own wells, boreholes, and natural sources for domestic water supply, a comprehensive approach to evaluating the quality of underground drinking water using geographic information system (GIS) technologies is necessary. The purpose of the study was to assess the quality of drinking water sources of noncentralized water supply in rural settlements of the united territorial communities (UTCs) of Zhytomyr district and to create geoinformation models based on the research results. The following research methods were used during the research: analytical, field, laboratory, statistical, calculation, and cartographic. The research was conducted in 129 settlements of 12 UTCs of Zhytomyr district, where drinking water samples were collected from noncentralized water supply sources for further analysis in the Measurement Laboratory of Polissia National University, and the creation of geoinformation models using the ArcGIS Pro software package. It has been proven that the average pH level in none of the studied settlements exceeded the norm. The average nitrate concentration in the drinking water from noncentralized water sources exceeded the norm by 1.4–3.5 times, specifically in the water of the Pulyny, Cherniakhiv, Vilshanka, Volytsia, and Oliivka communities, exceeding the maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) limit by more than two times. Only in rural settlements in the Liubar community was the average iron content found to be above the norm by more than 1.9 times. Overall, it was established that the calculated value of the overall water quality class in the Zhytomyr district was 2.03, which is determined as “good,” clean water of acceptable quality. The best water quality was found in the Vilshanka, Cherniakhiv, and Stanyshivka communities, with a quality class range of 1.85–1.93, while the worst water quality was recorded in the Oliivka, Teterivka, and Liubar communities, with a quality class range of 2.13–2.31. It was determined that the highest contribution to the overall water quality was made by nitrate and iron content. The obtained research results and models based on them can be used by local governments of the studied communities to inform the population about the quality of drinking water and to develop a plan for improving the state of drinking water supply with the aim of increasing the level of environmental safety of drinking water.

Historical Insights into Sustainable Development: Analyzing the Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Ancient Trade and Settlements

Ancient trade routes significantly influenced political structures, cultural exchanges, economic development, and landscape transformations across diverse regions. The Ancient Tea Horse Road, a prominent historical commercial pathway in China, is crucial for ecosystem and cultural heritage conservations. This study uses content and comparative analysis, Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, and spatial analysis to examine the spatiotemporal relationships between 13,026 settlement points identified via Google Earth and 445 recorded settlement names within the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. The findings indicate that the Ancient Tea Horse Road evolved from a simple linear form to a complex radial network, reflecting its growth from local to broad regional connectivity. Settlements related to administrative, postal, and commercial functions emerged in its vicinity, underscoring the route’s impact on social structures and economic activities. The development of settlements, mainly within a 10 km radius of the route, was closely linked to its expansion, alteration, and decline, offering insights into contemporary settlement distribution patterns. This research not only enhances the understanding of the Ancient Tea Horse Road and its surrounding settlements but also supports the protection of ancient trade routes and their cultural heritage. It contributes to sustainable development by integrating ecological preservation with the safeguarding of ancient trade routes and their cultural legacies.

Design and Implementation of Time Point Approval and Dynamic Monitoring for Rural Illegal Occupation of Farmland for Constructing Houses

Abstract. The illegal occupation of farmland for building houses has impact not only on the land resources, but also the agricultural production, ecological environment, and food security. In order to protect farmland resources, maintain stable agricultural production activities and improve ecological environment, this paper designs and implements a time-point approval and dynamic monitoring solution and system for the problem of rural illegal occupation of farmland for constructing houses by comprehensively utilizing the satellite remote sensing technology (RS) and geographic information system technology (GIS). The result shows that the time-point approval and dynamic monitoring system can identify the illegal construction of houses accurately, thus this work can curb the generation of new illegal houses, and support the special governance of the construction of illegally occupied farmland effectively and continuously.

An analysis of qualifications and requirements for geographic information systems (GIS) positions in the United States

AbstractAs the demand for geospatial analytics continues to grow, geographic information systems (GIS) professionals are needed to build, operate, and maintain GIS technologies, data, and software to provide geospatial insights for modern industries and organizations. To best train the next generation of GIS professionals, an understanding of qualifications and requirements of GIS positions is needed. Thus, this work analyzes 508 GIS positions, grouped by position type (analysts, developers, educators, managers, specialists, technicians) to provide insights on key pre‐requisite requirements, such as education, experience, certifications, soft communication skills, programming skills, and knowledge of GIS or IT. In general, possession of a bachelor's degree in GIS, geography, or computer science, prior professional experience, and knowledge of GIS and IT software were common pre‐requisites for most GIS roles. Soft communication skills were also frequently desired for GIS roles. We also found that some position requirements tended to vary by position type, such as manager and developer roles requiring on average 5 years or higher prior experience, while analyst, specialist, and technician roles had much lower experience and education requirements. Higher education institutions and GIS training programs should note the desired requirements for GIS position types and continue to refine programs and develop pathways for success for aspiring GIS professionals.

Population analysis using GIS software tools A case study of Chengdu

Population analysis using GIS software tools A case study of Chengdu

Scalable business models for startups in renewable energy: Strategies for using GIS technology to enhance SME scaling

The renewable energy sector has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, driven by global efforts to mitigate climate change and transition towards sustainable energy sources. Startups play a crucial role in this transition, often pioneering innovative solutions and technologies. However, for these startups to thrive and contribute significantly to the renewable energy landscape, scalable business models are essential. This abstract explores strategies for leveraging Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to enhance scalability in small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) startups operating in the renewable energy sector. GIS technology offers a powerful framework for analyzing and visualizing spatial data, providing valuable insights into site selection, resource assessment, and infrastructure planning. By integrating GIS into their business models, startups can optimize operations, reduce costs, and accelerate growth. This review discusses various strategies for utilizing GIS technology, including market analysis, site suitability assessment, supply chain optimization, and infrastructure planning. Drawing on case studies and industry examples, this review highlights the effectiveness of GIS in enhancing scalability for renewable energy startups. It also addresses the challenges and limitations associated with GIS implementation, such as technical complexities, data accessibility, and cost considerations. Furthermore, this review discusses emerging trends in GIS technology and their potential impact on the renewable energy sector, offering insights into future opportunities for startups. In conclusion, this review emphasizes the importance of GIS technology in facilitating scalable business models for renewable energy startups. By harnessing the power of GIS, SMEs can unlock new growth opportunities, drive innovation, and contribute significantly to the transition towards a sustainable energy future. Keywords: Scalable Business Models, Startups, Renewable Energy, GIS Technology, SME Scaling.

Identifying the priority areas for ecological protection considering ecological connectivity and ecosystem integrity: A case study of Xianyang City, China

Identifying ecological protection priority areas (EPPAs) in municipal areas is essential for accurate ecological restoration and ensuring sustainable regional development. Xianyang represents a typical medium-sized city that is currently grappling with the dual challenges of ecological restoration and urban development. This study employed a multi-criteria method to evaluate ecological importance, considering both ecosystem services and ecological vulnerability. Based on this, ecological corridors and pinch points that enhance ecological connectivity were delineated using the circuit theory. Subsequently, the integrity of ecosystems is assessed from structural and functional perspectives to ensure their health and stability. With the support of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, the three important areas for ecological protection were integrated to designate EPPAs. The results showed that: (1) the extremely important area spans 1956.44 km2, primarily made up of forests and grasslands. (2) There were found to be 19 ecological sources, 26 ecological corridors, and 23 ecological pinch points. (3) With excellent ecosystem integrity, the region was dominated by eco-lands, which accounted for 2692.71 km2. (4) In the end, this study identified 3328.83 km2 of EPPAs, 32.65 % of the study area. These are primarily located in the northern mountains and major watersheds. Human activities are found as the most important factor for the overall spatial variations in the area. A multi-level framework was developed to establish a continuous, comprehensive, and systematic method for identifying EPPAs, thereby enhancing ecological restoration, protection, and the sustainable use of regional ecosystems.

Using cluster analysis to identify communities of interest for purposes of legislative redistricting: A case study of parishes in Louisiana

The use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology has been found to limit the kinds of communities that can in principle achieve political representation through redistricting because the process excludes “communities of interest” (COIs) that cannot be mapped. We argue that these limits can be overcome using empirically based variables to define a COI in conjunction with an empirically based classification system, cluster analysis. Our argument is based on a case study of a legislative redistricting case in which we examined the cultural, economic, demographic, historic, and social characteristics upon which a COI would be defined. We employed an empirically and scientifically based classification system called “cluster analysis” to determine if these two geographically-separated groups of parishes form a single COI, which, in turn, would serve as a justification for them being placed together into reorganized congressional District 5. We find that East Carroll Parish and its six neighboring parishes (Franklin, Madison, Morehouse, Richland, Tensas, and West Carroll) are in a different COI grouping than East Baton Rouge Parish. Moreover, from the COI perspective, East Baton Rouge Parish should not be included in proposed plans involving a proposed RCD5 that include East Carroll Parish and its six neighboring parishes. This finding also applies to Lafayette Parish, both in whole and in part. This finding is not only relevant because COIs are important in redistricting, but it demonstrates that the limits identified in regard to the use of GIS-based technology in identifying COIs can be surmounted.

Development and key technologies for architectural design and technical solutions of CIM platform: A review

The integration of building information modeling (BIM), geographic information systems (GIS), 5G, IOT, cloud computing, big data, artificial intelligence, and other technologies in urban management has become a new and rapidly developing trend in recent years. However, most of the existing research on the construction of city information modeling (CIM) platforms based on the integration of BIM and GIS technologies focuses on integration technologies, and there is a lack of theories, methods, and standards for further data analysis and mathematical modeling. This paper analyzes and summarizes the actual situation of the application of recent research papers in the BIM field and the application of CIM platform pilot projects, reviews the application of BIM and GIS technologies in smart cities, and discusses future trends. For example, the construction of a basic platform for smart cities requires the establishment of a three-dimensional visual CIM platform with functions such as the planning review, architectural design plan review, construction drawing review, completion acceptance filing. A smart city is built by analyzing the cyber security risks faced during the construction. The technical, management, and operational measures of the security system provide guidance and reference for the secure construction of smart cities. This involves promoting the reform of the construction work system driven by data resources obtained from government information, and the establishment a new digital government construction management system through the “separation of management and transportation.” These analyses highlight the evolution of the CIM platform construction. The results indicate that the use of key technology integration in the construction of a CIM platform requires a system theory that goes beyond integration technology and mathematical modeling methods for a detailed application. It involves analyzing the deep integration of key technologies and business processes in the CIM platform.

Evaluating and predicting coastal shoreline changes in the Doi Duong - Phan Thiet beach area by remote sensing and GIS technology

Assessing the shoreline variability is paramount in understanding the erosion and coastal accretion processes. The potential impact of erosion on coastal communities, particularly in coastal regions, amplifies the vulnerability to coastal disasters. In this study, Landsat satellite imagery captured from 1990 to 2022 was utilized, in conjunction with Geographic Information System (GIS), to scrutinize alterations in the shoreline of Doi Duong Beach - Phan Thiet. The satellite images were independently processed using aspect-ratio methods and thresholding techniques to determine the prevailing condition of the coastline. The rate of shoreline change was quantified using the DSAS tool. The investigation’s findings reveal a dynamic interplay between erosion and accretion, with accretion dominance explicitly evident within the areas surrounding the Ca Ty - Phu Hai river mouth. The average annual shoreline change rate is 27.1 m/yr for the Ca Ty River mouth and 16.5 m/yr for the Phu Hai River mouth. The most significant disparity between the recorded coastline in 1990 and 2022 measures 868 m. Additionally, the projections for the coastline until 2032 indicate that accretion remains the dominant process. This research shows that combining geospatial techniques and numerical models is a reliable way to study shoreline change trends.

Quantification of soil erosion and sediment yield using the RUSLE model in Boyo watershed, central Rift Valley Basin of Ethiopia

Changes in land use and land cover (LULC) are becoming recognized as critical to sustainability research, particularly in the context of changing landscapes. Soil erosion is one of the most important environmental challenges today, particularly in developing countries like Ethiopia. The objective of this study was evaluating the dynamics of soil loss, quantifying sediment yield, and detecting soil erosion hotspot fields in the Boyo watershed. To quantify the soil erosion risks, the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model was used combined with remote sensing (RS) and geographic information system (GIS) technology, with land use/land cover, rainfall, soil, and management approaches as input variables. The sediment yield was estimated using the sediment delivery ratio (SDR) method. In contrast to a loss in forest land (1.7 %), water bodies (3.0 %), wetlands (1.5 %), and grassland (1.7 %), the analysis of LULC change (1991–2020) showed a yearly increase in the area of cultivated land (1.4 %), built-up land (0.8 %), and bare land (3.5 %). In 1991, 2000, and 2020, respectively, the watershed's mean annual soil loss increases by 15.5, 35.9, and 38.3 t/ha/y. Approximately 36 cm of the watershed's economically productive topsoil was lost throughout the study's twenty-nine-year period (1991–2020). According to the degree of erosion, 16 % of the watershed was deemed seriously damaged, while 70 % was deemed slightly degraded. Additionally, it is estimated for the year 2020 that 74,147.25 t/y of sediment (8.52 % of the total annual soil loss of 870,763.12 t) reach the Boyo watershed outlet. SW4 and SW5 were the two sub-watersheds with the highest erosion rates, requiring immediate conservation intervention to restore the ecology of the Boyo watershed.

GIS-Based assessment of geological hazard susceptibility in Southeastern Tibetan region: An information entropy approach

The terrain and geological conditions in southeastern Tibetan region are complex, especially under the influence of hydraulic and hydroelectric development, and susceptibility to geological hazards has increased. This study focused on three counties in Changdu City. We aimed to assess the susceptibility to geological hazards in this region using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology and information entropy models. Historical geological hazard data from the local area, remote sensing data, and GIS were utilized to develop an information entropy model for landslide geological hazard analysis. Key triggering factors for landslide geological hazards in the southeastern Tibetan region were identified, and a comprehensive dataset was compiled. Information entropy model was applied to consider various influencing factors and calculate their impact on geological hazards, Landslide risk in the area was analyzed and generate a susceptibility map for geological hazards. Our results indicate significant correlations between factors, such as steep terrain, human engineering activities, and land types with landslide occurrences. The established evaluation model can reasonably predict potential geological hazard risk in Nujiang River region and partially reflect the distribution characteristics of geological hazards in the southeastern Tibetan region. This offers a scientific foundation for relevant authorities to formulate disaster prevention and response strategies.