انعكاسات النمو الحضري غير المخطط على تدهور الغطاء النباتي في ضواحي مدينة الزاوية خلال الفترة (2000-2024م)

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to monitor and analyze the environmental impacts resulting from random urban sprawl on vegetation cover in the suburbs of Al-Zawiya City (Juda'im, Al-Harsha, Abu Sarah, and Al-Matrad).

Methodology: The study adopted an integrated methodology combining theoretical analysis with modern technical applications, including:

• Analysis of satellite imagery (Landsat) for 2000 and 2024.
• Application of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) to measure vegetation density.
• Use of Change Detection techniques to track spatial transformations.
• Integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing.

Key Findings:

1. Severe Vegetation Degradation: The area lost approximately 51% of its vegetation cover over a quarter-century, with green spaces declining from 65% in 2000 to 32% in 2024.
2. Random Growth Pattern: Prevalence of Ribbon Development along main road axes, leading to fragmentation of green infrastructure.
3. Agricultural Land Fragmentation: Large agricultural holdings transformed into unregulated small residential plots.
4. Serious Environmental Consequences: Exacerbation of Urban Heat Island effect, soil degradation, disruption of hydrological cycles, and loss of biodiversity.

Recommendations:

• Implement smart surveillance using geospatial technologies.
• Update structural plans to incorporate green belts.
• Enact strict legislation to protect agricultural lands.
• Develop integrated planning strategies for urban sustainability.