Towards user-driven earth observation-based slum mapping

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compenvurbsys.2021.101681Get rights and content
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Highlights

  • The user-driven approach provides policy-relevant geoinformation on slums.

  • Integrating local knowledge and user requirements is crucial for slum mapping

  • Geo-ethics ensure ethical data production and sharing

  • Assessment of uncertain areas improve the credibility of the map.

Abstract

Earth observation (EO) capabilities to produce up-to-date geographical information on slums over large areas supporting urban planning and evidence-based policymaking are largely acknowledged. Most EO studies typically use a data-driven approach without an understanding of end-user requirements. This study addresses this gap by aligning EO methods with societal needs and concerns using a user-driven approach in Accra, Ghana. By carrying out in-situ observations and slum experts interviews, we produced a user-driven slum map that meets potential users' expectations. To do so, we used a random forest classifier, SPOT 6 imagery, and ancillary geospatial data such as OpenStreetMap information. The overall classification accuracy for the user-driven approach reached 84%. The results show that the addition of local context-knowledge, end-user requirements, and geo-ethics, help to better contextualise and conceptualise slums. Our research demonstrates an approach of slum mapping that is reflective and open to societal needs and concerns.

Keywords

Slums
Local context-knowledge
End-user requirement
Geo-ethics
Urban remote sensing
Geoinformation
Accra

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