Remote sensing is the only way to monitor Earth's biodiversity continuously and repeatedly over a large area. With space agencies investing in sensors specifically designed to assess biodiversity and ecosystem health, we have the opportunity for the first time for global monitoring systems to detect early signs of ecosystem change. To understand different aspects of biodiversity loss, we can rely on satellite systems. This requires integration of remote sensing and ecological theory and methods at spatial, temporal and biological scales.

This lecture emphasises remote sensing of biodiversity, focusing on vegetation spectroscopy. Topics will include the use of spectrometers at spatial scales and applications of image spectroscopy for mapping plant traits and plant community composition.