Geographic information systems (GIS) is a powerful analytical and visual tool that allows researchers to spatially analyze various kinds of data presenting it on a map. It is a particularly useful tool for population-environment research questions, allowing researchers to calculate the human impact on ecologically defined areas, rather than politically defined areas. Population Action International used a GIS to calculate the impact of human population growth on biodiversity loss in areas of biological richness throughout the world. Researchers calculated human population density and human population gorwth rates within these regions using a global population density layer created by CIESIN/NCGIA and a layer representing biologically diverse, yet threatened areas created by Conservation International. Using these two layers, researchers found that though these hotspots enclose only 12 percent of the planet's land surfaces, these biologically rich regions were home to approximately 20 percent of the world's population in 1995. All but one of these hotspots were still experiencing net human population growth in 1995. Population Action International also found that human population gorwth in the world's last remaining expanses of tropical wilderness areas is proceeding at two and half times the rate of the world's population as a whole. These findings demonstrate the challenges posed by human population growth to conservation efforts targeted at protecting the world's remaining biological diversity. See www.populationaction.org
Learning Objectives: Describe the use of GIS for population mapping Discuss population growth in reference to biodiversity hotspots Identify ways in which GIS can assist in preserving biological diversity
Keywords: Population, Environment
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Population Action International
CIESIN/NCGIA
Conservation International
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: employment