Exploring spatial dynamics of urbanization and solid waste generation in Kota city using the Google Earth Engine.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Urban Planning
• Remote Sensing

Background:

• Rapid urbanization drives significant solid waste generation and environmental alterations.
• Kota city experienced substantial urban growth between 2000 and 2023.
• Understanding these dynamics is crucial for sustainable urban development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between urbanization, solid waste, and environmental changes in Kota city (2000-2023).
• To analyze land use/land cover (LULC) changes and predict future LULC scenarios up to 2043.
• To provide insights for sustainable urban planning and waste management strategies.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Google Earth Engine (GEE) for LULC classification and analysis.
• Applied indices such as NDVI, NDMWI, NDBI, and LST to assess environmental parameters.
• Employed predictive modeling for future LULC changes up to 2043.

Main Results:

• Built-up areas increased by 122.38%, correlating with a 294.16% rise in solid waste.
• Land surface temperature (LST) increased by 24.6% (R²=0.9936), indicating urban heat island effects.
• Vegetation cover (NDVI) and water resources (NDMWI) declined, signifying environmental degradation.

Conclusions:

• Continued urban expansion is projected, further impacting natural resources by 2043.
• Sustainable urban planning, green infrastructure, and advanced waste recycling are essential.
• Findings support policymakers in balancing urban growth with environmental sustainability and waste management.