Hyperspectral data detect climate impact on tundra vegetation
Short description
The sensitive subarctic tundra is affected by climate change. The increased temperature in the north can lead to changes such as increased biomass of plants in some cases, or damaged plants in others. This research project uses data from a new hyperspectral satellite called EnMAP. The study mainly focuses on study areas in Sweden but also has a global link to other research projects studying tundra vegetation.
Background
Sensitive Arctic and sub-Arctic tundra vegetation is affected by the extreme climate changes now affecting large parts of the Arctic. Increased temperatures, changes in seasonality and precipitation patterns are affecting plant health, biomass and species composition. In some areas, tundra vegetation responds by expanding or increasing its biomass (greening), while in other areas vegetation can be damaged or die (browning).
Satellite data are used to observe changes in tundra vegetation across the Arctic. This study uses more advanced satellite data from the so-called “EnMAP” satellite to observe the effect of climate change on tundra vegetation and biodiversity over time. One advantage of so-called hyperspectral satellites is that they can specify in greater detail the nutrient content and other chemical properties of plants and to some extent also the soil, such as chlorophyll and nitrogen content. These chemical properties give indications of plant vitality and production levels, which can be altered by warming, drought and exposure to frost and ice.
This decade will see the launch of several hyperspectral satellites, which will make it possible to observe the impact of climate change on tundra vegetation and biodiversity over time.
Research questions addressed by the study
- Can biochemical and biophysical properties of tundra vegetation associated with a drier and warmer climate be detected using EnMAP?
- Can EnMAP detect tundra plant biodiversity and can hyperspectral data be applied to observe the effect of climate pressures on biodiversity?
- Is monitoring of tundra vegetation under climate pressure improved by synergistic use of hyperspectral EnMAP data and the higher spatial detail of Sentinel-2 data?
Results of the study
The results of the study are of interest to the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, Sami reindeer herders, and the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB).
