Remote sensing characterization of changes in forest resources and betel leaf cultivation through time

Obtaining accurate data for monitoring the conditions of resources in developing countries is typically challenging. The reason may be insufficient facilities or, in some cases, disorganization of authorities. These difficulties also apply to procuring data on forest resources in Teknaf. There have been some recent initiatives and/or activities to conserve forests in this area. However, recent data are inadequate for determining the underlying mechanism of deforestation in Teknaf. What is required is time series data for the period before the onset of deforestation. Remote sensing offers a powerful tool for conducting a quantitative analysis of a time series and/or seasonal changes in forest resources. In this chapter, we discuss how we used remote sensing data to show changes in Teknaf's forest resources and assess changes in betel leaf cultivation practices among villagers by combining an analysis of remote sensing data with an analysis of the livelihood status of inhabitants of the village of Marishbunia.