Geospatial Analysis of Urban Expansion and Vegetation Dynamics in Kirkuk Governorate Utilizing Remote Sensing Technologies

Abstract

Rapid urban expansion is a key driver of land use and land cover (LULC) transitions, causing spatial and environmental transformations that directly challenge natural resource sustainability. This study uses remote sensing (RS) datasets and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze the spatial dynamics of urban expansion and its subsequent consequences on vegetation dynamics in Kirkuk Governorate. By analyzing multi-temporal satellite images, the study maps historical land cover changes and estimates the trajectory and scale of urban sprawl throughout the specified era. Furthermore, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was used to track changes in biomass density and identify specific areas affected by green space deterioration. The spatial empirical results show a significant increase in built-up settings, which is closely correlated with a significant loss of surrounding vegetation, especially in areas outside of main metropolitan centers. The results reveal a strong negative spatial link between the distribution of vegetation and horizontal urban growth; the governorate's ecological stresses have increased due to the systematic encroachment of green spaces by accelerated construction operations. In the end, these observations emphasize how important it is to incorporate geospatial technologies into frameworks for environmental monitoring. Monitoring urban dynamics, directing sustainable municipal planning, reducing unchecked sprawl, and preserving Kirkuk Governorate's ecological integrity all depend on this kind of integration.