Publications

Matarira, D; Mutanga, O; Naicker, R; Bangira, T (2025). Rapid detection of human-induced impacts on key urban green infrastructure within eThekwini municipality, South Africa, using MODIS and residual trend analysis. JOURNAL OF SPATIAL SCIENCE.

Abstract
Urban green space degradation impacts urban sustainability. Understanding degradation trends, considering natural and human factors, is essential for developing appropriate adaptation and restoration strategies. The study identified hotspots of human-induced vegetation loss in eThekwini municipality. Using the residual trend (RESTREND) approach, Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) NDVI data and Climate Hazards Group Infrared Precipitation with Stations (CHIRPS) rainfall dataset, results indicate that the majority of eThekwini (58.5%) presented an increasing NDVI trend, shown by large areas with positive residual trends. About 6.1% of the area experienced declining trends with most pronounced degradation dominating areas in the north and central eThekwini.

DOI:
10.1080/14498596.2025.2484010

ISSN:
1836-5655