Evaluating the consistency and discrepancies among biomass datasets in the Cornwall region through a comparative analysis of their methodologies and performance

Abstract

Biomass data is essential for environmental monitoring and management, but inconsistencies and uncertainties among these datasets hinder accurate estimates. This study comprehensively compares GEDI, ESA CCI, and ICESat-2 biomass datasets for Cornwall, an analysis not previously been conducted, evaluating spatial distribution, statistical properties, uncertainty, and saturation.

GEDI offers high-resolution, precise biomass estimates suitable for ecological studies, despite its coarser resolution compared to the other datasets. ESA CCI provides global coverage and integrates various data sources for climate change mitigation, but early signal saturation is an issue. ICESat-2 combines field measurements with satellite data, offering detailed temporal insights, but uncertainty is higher in Cornwall's complex landscape.

This analysis revealed significant biomass estimate variations due to sensor differences, methodologies, and processing techniques. GEDI and ICESat-2 captured broader biomass ranges compared to ESA CCI's predominantly lower values. Methodological transparency varies, although GEDI’s enhanced clarity is evident through precision categorisation. Lidar-based GEDI outperformed optical and radar methods such as those by ESA CCI, which saturated earlier. Resampling impacts are evident in altered statistical properties, with higher R-squared values indicating stronger large-scale relationships but reduced detail at coarser resolutions.

The importance of this research and its results lies in its potential to enhance the accuracy of biomass estimation and improved ecological research, land use planning, carbon accounting and climate change mitigation efforts. By examining the differences and complementarities between these datasets, this study supports more informed decision making in selecting appropriate data sources. Furthermore, the insights gained from this analysis can inform efforts in biomass mapping not only in Cornwall but also in other regions with similar ecological characteristics. To ensure biomass mapping produces comparable, reliable, and consistent results, user-friendly product documentation employing consistent terminology is strongly recommended.