Monitoring Water Quality and Ecosystem Health Using Copernicus Sentinel Data: Case Studies from Urban and Rural Areas

Abstract

 

Abstract

Monitoring water quality and ecosystem health is essential for ensuring the sustainability of natural resources, particularly in the face of increasing urbanization and environmental degradation. This article investigates the use of Copernicus Sentinel data to monitor water quality in both urban and rural ecosystems, providing a detailed analysis of water bodies through satellite imagery. Using case studies from diverse geographical areas, the study examines key indicators such as turbidity, chlorophyll concentration, and the presence of harmful algal blooms. The integration of remote sensing data with in-situ measurements offers a comprehensive view of how urban development and agricultural practices influence water quality. In urban areas, the study reveals a correlation between increased pollution and deteriorating water quality, while rural regions face challenges from agricultural runoff and land use changes. The article demonstrates how Sentinel-2 and Sentinel-3 satellites can be used to track seasonal variations in water health, providing valuable data for policymakers to manage water resources and mitigate pollution. The findings underscore the importance of satellite-based monitoring as a cost-effective and scalable solution for assessing the health of aquatic ecosystems globally. The research concludes with recommendations for expanding the use of Sentinel data in environmental management and emphasizes the need for continued investment in satellite-based technologies for ecosystem monitoring.