Global bare ground gain from 2000 to 2012 using Landsat imagery

Bare ground gain, or vegetative cover loss, is an important component of global land cover change resulting from economic drivers such as urbanization and resource extraction. In this study, we characterized global bare ground gain from Landsat time series. The maps were then used to stratify the globe in creating a sample-based estimate of global bare ground gain extent, land cover/land use outcomes, and associated uncertainties from 2000 to 2012. An estimated total of 93,896 km² (± 9317 km² for 95% confidence interval) of bare ground gain occurred over the study period. Human-induced bare ground gain accounted for 95% of the total and consisted of the following components: 39% commercial and residential development, 23% resource extraction, 21% infrastructure development, 11% transitional, and 1% greenhouses. East Asia and the Pacific accounted for nearly half of all global bare ground gain area (45%), with China alone accounting for 35% of global gain. The United States was second to China, accounting for 17% of total bare ground gain. Land cover/land use outcomes of bare ground gain varied between regions and countries, reflecting different stages of development and the possible use of bare ground gain as an indicator of economic activity.