The examination of the effect of changes in wetlands on greenhouse gas emissions using remote sensing techniques

Wetlands constitute a vital component of ecosystems, serving as natural sources of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane. However, anthropogenic influences have led to accelerated losses of wetlands in recent years, consequently escalating greenhouse gas emissions. This thesis proposes a research framework to investigate the impact of wetland changes on greenhouse gas emissions utilizing remote sensing methodologies. In this study, CH4 concentration levels within significant wetlands across Turkey, designated as Ramsar Sites and Wetlands of National Importance for preservation, were determined using the TROPOMI sensor onboard the Sentinel-5P satellite. Furthermore, NDWI, NDVI, and LST analyses were conducted within these wetlands using Landsat 8 satellite imagery captured on concurrent dates. These analyses were facilitated through the Google Earth Engine platform. The findings will elucidate the influence of variables such as alterations in wetland vegetation, fluctuations in water levels, and surface temperature on greenhouse gas emissions. This research endeavor aims to make a substantial contribution to the conservation and management of wetlands by providing scientific and technical insights that hold significant implications for policy formulation concerning environmental sustainability and climate change.