Spaceborne satellite remote sensing of tropical montane forests: a review of applications and future trends

While our knowledge of tropical montane forests (TMFs) is limited, human activities continue to damage them. Remote sensing has shown its usefulness for forest investigations with difficult terrain. This study systematically reviewed the applications of spaceborne remote sensing to TMFs with regards to time, spatial distribution, journal publication, methodology, theme, sensor systems, vegetation zones, research needs, and techniques applied. Our review found that the number of papers published between 1997 to 2021 has increased considerably. Experts used optical sensors with low to medium spatial resolution (85.76%), and that the use of synthetic aperture radar received little attention (12.70%). Published articles varied substantially between continents, with the Americas having the most studies (62.26%), leaving Asia, Africa, and Oceania behind. Most research has focused on forestry (42.66%), climate science (11.01%), and disaster management (9.63%). This paper highlighted the challenges and opportunities in the application of remote sensing in TMF conservation and management.

Automated summary

This study provides a systematic review of the applications of spaceborne remote sensing in tropical montane forests (TMFs). The review reveals an increasing number of published papers in this field between 1997 and 2021. Most studies were conducted in the Americas, while Asia, Africa, and Oceania had fewer studies. Optical sensors with low to medium spatial resolution were commonly used, while synthetic aperture radar received less attention. The main research themes included forestry, climate science, and disaster management.