Key learning points

1. GIS uses remote sensing to investigate spatio-temporal changes in rainforests.
2. Remote sensing includes satellite imagery and aerial imagery.
3. Historical satellite imagery and aerial imagery can be studied using swipe tools such as the Esri Wayback App or 3D GIS.
4. Remote sensing can be used to monitor and manage deforestation.
5. Remote sensing can be used to analyse a range of economic activities which can contribute to causes of deforestation.

Keywords

• Remote sensing - the collection of data at a distance reflected or emitted by objects, living things or areas on different wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum, observed by satellite or aircraft

• Satellite imagery - a type of remote sensing which uses observations by satellites of selected parts of the electromagnetic spectrum to monitor terrestrial, oceanic or atmospheric features and processes

• Aerial imagery - a type of remote sensing which uses observations by aircraft of selected parts of the electromagnetic spectrum to monitor terrestrial, oceanic or atmospheric features and processes

Common misconception