New Global Map Classifies Forests and Tracks Changes Over Time

A new global map, developed through a collaboration between Google DeepMind, Google Research, the World Resources Institute, and the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis, provides detailed insights into the world’s forests. Known as the Forest Typology (ForTy) 2020, this innovative tool categorizes every 10-by-10-meter patch of land into six distinct forest and land-use types. This map not only identifies where the world's forests are but also classifies them as natural, planted, or farmed forests. Moreover, it includes a time series that tracks changes from 2017 to 2025, providing invaluable data on how these forests have evolved over time.

The ForTy map is a significant advancement over previous maps that only indicated tree presence. It offers a detailed classification of land into categories such as primary forests, naturally regenerating forests, planted forests, plantation forests, tree crops and agroforestry, and other lands. This comprehensive classification aims to support regulatory frameworks like the European Union's deforestation regulation, which mandates that certain products must not originate from recently deforested lands.

Why this matters

Understanding the type of forest and its changes over time is crucial for conservation efforts and regulatory compliance. Forests play a vital role in carbon storage and biodiversity, with different types holding varying ecological values. For instance, primary forests that have remained undisturbed are far more beneficial for carbon storage and biodiversity than intensively managed plantation forests. ForTy’s detailed classification helps in identifying areas where natural forests are being replaced by plantations or farms, thus informing conservation strategies and regulatory measures aimed at protecting these vital ecosystems.

What it means for learners and teachers in Africa

The introduction of ForTy is particularly relevant for Africa, where deforestation and land-use changes are significant concerns. Learners and educators can use this tool to gain a deeper understanding of local and regional forest dynamics. It provides a practical example of how technology can aid in environmental monitoring and sustainability efforts. For educational purposes, the map can serve as a resource for teaching about ecology, environmental science, and geography.

In terms of access and cost, the availability of such detailed data at no cost can significantly enhance educational resources across the continent. It allows students and teachers to engage with real-world data, making learning more interactive and relevant. Furthermore, understanding local forest types and changes can aid in developing skills related to environmental management and conservation, which are increasingly important in the context of global climate challenges.

What to watch next

As ForTy continues to be refined, its applications in policy-making and conservation are expected to grow. Future developments may include more detailed time series data and improved accuracy through continued validation efforts. The impact of ForTy on regulatory compliance, particularly in relation to the European Union's deforestation regulations, will be an area to monitor closely.

In Africa, the map's influence on local conservation projects and educational programs will be an interesting development to follow. As more regions gain access to this data, it could inspire further research and innovation in the field of environmental science, potentially leading to more sustainable land-use practices across the continent.