Regional-Scale Analysis of Vegetation Dynamics Using Satellite Data and Machine Learning Algorithms: A Multi-Factorial Approach

Abstract Accurate vegetation analysis is crucial amid accelerating global changes and human activities. Achieving precise characterization with multi-temporal Sentinel-2 data is challenging. In this article, we present a comprehensive analysis of 2021's seasonal vegetation cover in Greater Sydney using Google Earth Engine (GEE) to process Sentinel-2 data. Using the random forest (RF) method, we performed image classification for vegetation patterns. Supplementary factors such as topographic elements, texture information, and vegetation indices enhanced the process and overcome limited input variables. Our model outperformed existing methods, offering superior insights into season-based vegetation dynamics. Multi-temporal Sentinel-2 data, topographic elements, vegetation indices, and textural factors proved to be critical for accurate analysis. Leveraging GEE and rich Sentinel-2 data, our study would benefit decision-makers involved in vegetation monitoring.