A Geospatial Analysis of Correlation Between Built-up Area and Vegetation Coverage using Google Earth Engine in Saint Martin Island, Bangladesh

Background: This study explores the complex interconnection between expanding human settlements and fluctuating plant life on the island of Saint Martin, Bangladesh, utilizing cutting-edge geospatial techniques through the open-source Google Earth Engine platform. The rapid population boom in Bangladesh and tourism-fueled development on Saint Martin Island stir serious worries about their ecological consequences. Methods: Remote sensing data sourced from Landsat 5 TM and Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS satellites between 1991 and 2022 were leveraged to dynamically calculate the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index and Normalized Difference Built-up Index, exposing variations over time. Regression investigation uncovers the relationship between urban density and green coverage by scrutinizing the change of NDBI and NDVI within Land Use classifications. The methodology is transparently documented in appendices, ensuring accuracy and replicability. Results: There was a little inverse relationship between NDVI and NDBI, suggesting that building has little effect on green space. When looking at NDBI values in constructed zones, distinct patterns suggest that 1991 had the highest levels of urbanization. In 2022, findings indicated a moderate adverse connection between the plant index and development index. However, 1991, 2001 and 2011 saw a weak linear negative correlation, suggesting buildings marginally impact vegetation worth. Conclusions: This research enhances comprehension of urbanization's effects on plants, providing valuable insights for sustainable city planning and land management. The study spotlights Earth Engine's analytical prowess for geospatial inquiries across diverse settings.