Earth Day & GIS
GIS and The Environment
GIS is used in a variety of ways to help the environment. From natural disaster response preparation to protecting migration routes, GIS is an important tool for protecting the Earth.
Estimation of Flood Damage
GIS can be used to create estimations of the effects of flooding in specific area. One study based in Colorado was able to "develop a graphical representation of the damages as the water surface elevations increase."
Forest Fire Management
GIS Professionals are able to monitor forest fire developments in real time. This data can be used to plan evacuations and firefighting efforts. USGS maps fires in the continental US.
Identification of Volcanic Hazard
GIS professionals are able to gather data from areas surrounding volcanoes to predict the threat level of each volcano. An example of this data can be seen for Washington State.
Management of Natural Resources
GIS is used to track usage of natural resources and ensure current usage is sustainable. Several methods can be used to protect our natural resources from overuse.
Wetland Mapping
GIS is used to map and protect wetlands. Data resources like the US Fish & Wildlife Services' Wetlands Mapper are used in "resource management, research and decision making."
Air Quality Monitoring
Remote Sensing can be used to monitor air quality around the world. The EPA has an interactive map you can visit to check the air quality in your area.
Animal Migration Patterns
GIS can be used to track the movements of animals. In 2019, Colorado implemented "a combination of wildlife overpasses, underpasses, fencing and wildlife escape ramps" on a major highway that reduced collisions by 90%! Researchers used GIS data to identify popular crossing points.