Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
JOURNAL OF COASTAL CONSERVATION, cilt.29, sa.6, 2025 (SCI-Expanded)
Coasts are of great importance both in terms of providing critical habitats for biodiversity and providing ecosystem services that support human activities. However, environmental impacts, especially caused by climate change, urbanization and land use transformations, pose serious threats to coastal ecosystems. This study aims to analyze the consequences of land use and land cover (LULC) changes on surface temperatures (LST) and urban heat island (UHI) effects in the coastal areas of Dubai. The aim of the study is to sustainably protect the ecosystem functions of coastal areas and to contribute to the strategic planning processes of these areas. Within the scope of the research, LULC change analysis was conducted using Landsat 5 and Landsat 8 satellite images for the years 1990-2024, and LST calculations were performed with data obtained from thermal bands. The spatial and temporal effects of the changes were evaluated in detail with statistical methods. The findings reveal that LULC changes have significant effects on LST and increase UHI intensity in coastal areas. Especially the expansion of built-up zones and the loss of natural landscapes have negatively affected the microclimatic balance in coastal areas. These results are an important guide for formulating sustainable urban planning policies aimed at protecting coastal ecosystems and adapting to climate change. The study emphasizes the necessity of developing ecosystem-based solutions in such sensitive areas, together with the environmental and socio-economic values of the coasts. The strategic importance of coastal areas is a fundamental focus to be taken into account in the planning of interventions aimed at reducing the effects of climate change.