A Study of Deforestation and Human Land-Use Activities in Alaotra-Mangoro, Madagascar

Abstract

Forests are essential natural resources that support biodiversity and contribute to climate stability. However, human exploitation of forests leads to widespread deforestation and becomes a global concern. Madagascar has experienced accelerated forest loss since the 1990s, making it an ideal region to study the relationship between deforestation and human land-use activities. In this project, the analysis focuses on Alaotra-Mangoro, Madagascar from 2000 to 2020. By comparing the landcover data between 2000 and 2020, we identify changes and infer potential drivers behind these transitions. Although this method does not support a causal relationship between forest loss and land-use activities, it provides evidence linking certain patterns of landcover change to human activities. These findings highlight the complex interplay between forest ecosystem and human behaviors, emphasizing the value of spatial approaches for conservation and land management sustainability.