GIS analysis of the boundaries of the Carpathian National Nature Park: Comparison of global and local geodata sources and their importance for environmental monitoring

The relevance of the study lies in the need to ensure high accuracy in determining the boundaries of the Carpathian National Nature Park (CNNP), which is important for the reliability of environmental monitoring using geographic information systems (GIS) and field studies. The conservation of natural ecosystems and effective management of the Carpathian National Nature Park territory are impossible without the integration and analysis of spatial data in geographic information systems, which ensure sound planning of nature conservation measures and control of the state of the environment. The aim of the article was to analyse geospatial datasets (boundary polygons) of the CNNP available in open sources and official materials, compare their accuracy and suitability for analysing environmental indicators, conduct spot field verification, and develop the author’s version of the park’s refined boundaries. The study analysed the possibilities of using open geospatial data, in particular satellite images, digital terrain models, and thematic layers of the Global Forest Watch platform in QGIS and ArcGIS environments. A comparison of different sources revealed significant errors in publicly available datasets, leading to distortions in statistical estimates of forest area, land use changes, and the identification of areas of anthropogenic impact. Based on geospatial analysis, field surveys, and comparison of official materials, the authors propose their own version of the refined boundaries of the CNNP. The paper provides an example of how inaccuracies in the boundaries of global monitoring systems, in particular on the Global Forest Watch platform, can significantly alter estimates of deforestation or forest degradation areas. This highlights the need for constant verification and updating of geospatial data for protected areas. The results of the study prove that the combination of open data, field research and modern GIS technologies is an effective tool for improving the accuracy of environmental data analysis. The proposed approach can be used as a model for improving the spatial boundaries of other protected areas in Ukraine, promoting sustainable nature use and transparent ecosystem management