Numerous publicly available Earth Observation maps provide data on forests, land use, and tree cover. However, these maps often differ because they use various definitions and classification systems. As a result, no single map can provide a complete picture of any specific area. To address this issue, the Forest Data Partnership (FDaP) and the AIM4Forests Programme advocate for the Convergence of Evidence approach.

This method involves:

• Using multiple data sets instead of relying on just one
• Combining information to gain a more detailed understanding of a particular area
• Reducing the impact of potential errors or biases in individual data sources

By analysing several data sets together, stakeholders can build a more accurate picture of what’s likely happening in a given location. This approach provides a more comprehensive and reliable view of forest and land use changes over time.

The analysis consists of extracting zonal statistics (counting relevant pixels) from a series of public datasets for a set of polygons (a plot of land). The geospatial analysis is presented in a tabular form where each geoID is a unit of information.

The types of datasets reported on are categorized as follows:

1) forest and tree cover at the end of 2020;
2) deforestation before and after 2020;
3) crop plantations and other agricultural uses; and
4) areas of significance for conservation.