A GIS and Remote Sensing Approach for Desertification Sensitivity Assessment in Basilicata Region (Italy)

Abstract

The evaluation of the environmental sensitivity to desertification of the rapidly changing Mediterranean landscape under the effects of climate change is evidently necessary for planning a sustainable method of management policies. This paper aim is to evaluate the current sensitivity to desertification of Basilicata region in southern Italy, where this phenomenon has been increasing over the past years, without control. Losses are strongly impacting on the potential regional progress, both economic and social, leading also to a huge ecological damage. The analysis was carried out based on the MEDALUS (MEditerrean Desertification and Land Use) model, developed within a dedicated European project. This method identifies the areas of the region that are more likely to be sensible to desertification thought the Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs) index. Starting with this methodology, the model parameters were implemented and then processed with a GIS-based approach, in order to evaluate soil, climate, management and vegetation quality factors, that represent the necessary input for assessing ESAs. The results were useful to indicate that the region is effectively lacking of management policies in those highly sensitive areas, due to a proved scarcity of previous studies on the topic. This study may open new opportunities for a further more conscious planning to prevent landscape, land and soil degradation.