Mapping the mangrove vulnerability index and potential impact prediction using geographical information system

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the spatial distribution of mangrove growth. The objectives of this study were to create maps that will lead to decision-making in the Mangrove Vulnerability Index (MVI), establishes an accurate GIS database to classify the GIS-based MVI maps for Pulau Kukup, Tg. Piai and Sg. Pulai Riverbanks and to predict the potential impacts due to sea-level rise. Vulnerable meaning exposes to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally. Environmental vulnerability as a function of exposure to impacts and the sensitivity and adaptive capacity of ecological systems towards environmental tensors. Climate change, especially sea level rise, contributes to coastal mangrove ecosystems, making it essential to introduce interventions to mitigate risk by strategic management preparation. The approach to ranking and evaluating the susceptibility of mangrove systems involves physical, biological, and threat elements, which are focused on approaches developed to address existing research issues. This includes evaluating the wellbeing of mangrove trees, the integrity of surrounding environments, the future effects of human impacts, and environmental considerations in different mangrove settings. MVI is classified into three main categories, which are the Physical Mangrove Index (PMI), Biological Mangrove Index (BMI), and Hazard Mangrove Index (HMI) that develop from the surrounding study area. PMI considers the physical of the mangrove itself, which includes Mangrove Species and Mangrove Height. BMI interpreted factors to contribute to the mangrove: canopy, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), distance to the coastline, soil and geomorphology type, tidal range, elevation, and salinity. HMI measure exposes component indicated Wind, Wave, Rainfall, and Industrial Activity, Shipping and Villages. The vulnerability assessment classification results reveal that very low, low, moderate, high, and very high vulnerability. The ability to monitor and predict vulnerability is beneficial to ecosystems that could be affected, especially mangroves. MVI not a one-time assessment within the framework of a thesis, but rather a starting point from long-term continuous monitoring act as guidance to obtained findings effectively evaluate the complexities of environmental issues.