The Dynamicity of Urban Landscape and Urban Temperature Variation: the case of

Urdaneta City, Pangasinan, Philippines.

Land, encompassing soil, minerals, water, and biotic resources (FAO, 1995), is a fundamental

resource underpinning human societies and ecosystems (Daily, 1997). It provides the physical

space for agriculture, settlements, infrastructure, and industrial activities, while also regulating

vital ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, water filtration, and biodiversity

conservation (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 2021). Healthy

ecosystems, particularly forests and wetlands, are vital for planetary well-being, as they provide

essential services such as the regulation of climate through carbon sequestration, the support of

diverse plant and animal life, and the cycling of crucial nutrients that sustain ecological

processes ( Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005). However, land resources are finite, and

increasing pressures from population growth, urbanization, and unsustainable land management

practices are leading to land degradation, resource depletion, and loss of ecosystem services

(Lambin et al., 2003; Geist & Lambin, 2004). Understanding the complex interactions between

human activities and land systems is therefore essential for achieving sustainable development

and ensuring the long-term well-being of both people and the environment (Turner et al., 2007;

MEA, 2005). According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO, 2017), over one-

quarter of the world’s land is affected by degradation, highlighting the urgent need for

sustainable land-use practices. As the global population continues to grow and climate change

impacts intensify, the pressing challenge remains to balance land use for food production,

urbanization, and conservation, ensuring that this vital resource is preserved for future

generations (United Nations, 2021; Foley et al., 2011). Understanding the dynamics of land use
and land cover change, as well as the social, economic, and environmental factors that influence

land management decisions, is crucial for promoting sustainable land governance and ensuring

the long-term well-being of both human communities and the environment (IPCC, 2019).

Land cover, on the other hand, describes as physical material covering the Earth's surface, is a

crucial component of our environment, influencing a wide range of ecological processes and

human activities (Ellis, 2015). It is distinct from land use, which describes the purpose or

function of the land, such as agriculture or urbanization (Turner et al., 2007). According to the

United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately 38% of the Earth's

land surface is forested, 31% is used for cropland, 24% is used for pastures and grazing, and the

remaining 7% is a mix of urban, barren, and water areas (FAO, 2020). Furthermore, land cover

change, a multifaceted phenomenon driven by human activities, is significantly impacting the

Earth's ecosystems and altering the planet's surface characteristics (Turner et al., 1990). Changes

in land cover can significantly impact regional and global climate patterns, alter hydrological

cycles, and affect the distribution and abundance of plant and animal species (Foley et al., 2005).

For instance, deforestation and land degradation can lead to soil erosion, decreased water quality,

and loss of wildlife habitats, while urbanization and development can alter local climate

conditions and increase greenhouse gas emissions (Seto et al., 2012).

Drastic land conversion is a significant global issue, contributing to biodiversity loss, climate

change, and social disruption. A stark example globally is the Amazon rainforest, where vast

tracts have been converted to agricultural land, particularly for cattle ranching and soybean

production (Fearnside, 2005). In Asia, the rapid expansion of palm oil plantations in Indonesia
and Malaysia has led to widespread deforestation and habitat loss, threatening iconic species like

orangutans (Koh & Wilcove, 2008). Within the Philippines, a particularly concerning case is the

conversion of mangrove forests to aquaculture ponds, especially for shrimp farming. This has

resulted in the loss of vital coastal ecosystems that provide crucial storm protection, fisheries

habitat, and carbon sequestration (Primavera, 2000). Over the past few decades, the

transformation of forests, wetlands, and other natural habitats into agricultural lands, urban areas,

and other human-dominated landscapes has accelerated, resulting in widespread loss of

biodiversity and degradation of ecosystem services (Foley et al., 2011). Land cover change

significantly impacts both local ecosystems and global climate change due to its effects on the

carbon cycle, water cycling, and other critical Earth system processes (Foley et al., 2005).

Land cover change has become a pressing concern in recent times, particularly in the wake of

rapid urbanization worldwide. As cities continue to grow and expand, the transformation of

natural habitats into urban landscapes has significant implications for the environment and

ecosystem services (Seto et al., 2011). Urbanization is a major driver of land cover change,

resulting in the loss of natural vegetation and habitats, as well as the degradation of soil and

water resources (Ellis et al., 2003). According to the United Nations, urban areas have expanded

by 1.8% per year, resulting in the clearing of millions of hectares of forests and agricultural lands

(World Urbanization Prospects, 2018). As cities grow, understanding the effects of land cover

change and adopting sustainable land use practices are crucial for balancing urban development

and environmental protection (Grimm et al., 2008).

The dynamic growth of cities in recent decades has dramatically transformed urban landscapes,

resulting in significant shifts in land cover and various environmental changes (Seto et al.,2010).

The land cover of Las Vegas, for instance, has transformed significantly from its original desert

terrain to urban area populated with housing, commercial establishments, and entertainment

venues. In fact, between 1980 and 2020, the city's population surged from around 250,000 to

more than 600,000, resulting in considerable urban sprawl (U.S. Census Bureau, 2020). This

transformation caused by an unprecedented movements of individuals leaving rural regions to

urban centers, leading to the growth of cities and the alteration of natural environment into urban

setting (United Nations, 2018). The rapid transformation of Shenzhen, for instance, from a small

fishing village to a megacity is largely attributed to the city's significant investments in

technology and manufacturing, which has led to the development of a skyline dominated by

towering buildings, tech parks, and advanced urban infrastructure. A report by the McKinsey

Global Institute notes that Shenzhen's "rapid urbanization has been driven by its "investment in

transportation infrastructure, housing, and public services" (Manyika et al., 2016, p. 12). As

urban areas expand, land cover change becomes a critical concern, significantly impacting local

climates, ecosystems, and human health.

Looking at the current situation of Urdaneta City, Pangasinan, like many urbanizing areas in the

Philippines, is experiencing a complex interplay of population growth, increasing urbanization,

and the consequent pressure on land conversion. As of the 2020 Census, Urdaneta City had a

population of approximately 150,000, representing a significant increase from previous years

(Philippine Statistics Authority, 2021). This burgeoning population is primarily driven by

various factors, including economic opportunities in commerce and agriculture, as well as its
strategic location along key transportation routes. The city's strategic location as a commercial

hub in eastern Pangasinan has attracted significant in-migration, contributing to a rising

population density (PSA, 2020). This demographic shift, coupled with economic development

and the expansion of infrastructure, fuels the demand for residential, commercial, and industrial

land (HLURB, 2015). Understanding the dynamics of these processes is crucial for effective

urban planning and sustainable land management in Urdaneta City.

The conversion of natural landscapes to urban environments leads to alterations in surface

materials, vegetation cover, and energy absorption, which contribute to the Urban Heat Island

(UHI) effect—where urban regions experience higher temperatures than their rural counterparts

(Oke, 1982; Voogt and Oke, 2003). This phenomenon is exacerbated by factors such as

increased impervious surfaces, reduced evapotranspiration, and anthropogenic heat emissions,

resulting in elevated energy consumption, worsened air quality, and heightened heat-related

health risks (Rizwan et al., 2008; Wong et al., 2017). By definition, The urban heat island (UHI)

effect is a phenomenon characterized by elevated temperatures in urban areas compared to their

rural surroundings, primarily due to human activities, land use changes, and the concentration of

buildings and infrastructure. This effect poses significant challenges in the context of global

climate change, exacerbating heat stress and influencing local weather patterns, water quality,

and energy demands. According to the United Nations, over half of the world's population now

resides in urban areas, with projections indicating that this number will rise to two-thirds by 2050

(UN, 2018). The implications of the UHI effect are particularly critical in tropical and

subtropical regions, where cities are often more susceptible to extreme heat. Understanding the

interplay between land cover change and the UHI effect is essential for urban planning and
environmental management strategies aimed at mitigating these impacts and enhancing urban

livability (Zhou et al., 2017).

Understanding land cover change and its relationship with the urban heat effect is crucial for

effective urban planning. By evaluating the driving factors behind these changes, planners can

identify strategies to mitigate the adverse impacts of UHI. For instance, integrating green

infrastructure, such as parks, green roofs, and street trees, alongside sustainable building

practices, significantly reduces the urban heat island effect by providing shade, increasing

evapotranspiration, and reducing the amount of heat-absorbing impervious surfaces (Gill et al.,

2007). In fact, land cover change and the urban heat island (UHI) effect are closely connected to

the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030. Both land cover change

and the urban heat island effect are critical issues that impact urban sustainability, health, and

climate resilience, aligning them closely with the objectives outlined in the Sustainable

Development Goals for 2030.

SDG’S PICTURE

Addressing these interconnected challenges is essential for promoting sustainable development

[Link] study aims to explore the intricate connections between land cover transformation

and urban heat dynamics, providing valuable insights that will inform urban planning decisions,

ultimately fostering more resilient, sustainable, and comfortable urban environments.

Problem Statement

Urdaneta City, located in Pangasinan, Philippines, serves as an important urban center in the

region, characterized by its rapid economic growth and urbanization. This development has led

to significant changes in land cover, resulting in various environmental challenges, including the

urban heat island (UHI) effect. Urban heat islands occur when urban areas experience higher

temperatures than their rural surroundings due to altered land surfaces, increased human activity,

and the abundance of heat-absorbing materials such as asphalt and concrete. In Urdaneta City,

extensive land cover transformation, primarily from agricultural lands to built environments, has

intensified this phenomenon, exacerbating local climate conditions.

Studies show that land cover change in urban areas is often associated with increased impervious

surfaces, which disrupt natural ecosystems and contribute to higher surface temperatures. The

impact of UHI is particularly noticeable during the hotter months, posing risks to public health

and increasing energy demand for cooling. As Urdaneta City continues to evolve, investigating

these dynamics is essential for sustainable urban planning and environmental management to

mitigate the adverse effects of UHI and improve the quality of life for its residents.

Research Questions

1. What is the extent of land cover change in Urdaneta City over a five-year period, specifically

from 2000 to 2025?

2. What is the spatial pattern of land temperature in Urdaneta City over a five-year period,

specifically from 2000 to 2025?

3. What is the projection of land cover change and land temperature in Urdaneta City by 2030?
Objective of the Study

The rapid urbanization experienced by cities around the world has significant implications for

land cover dynamics and environmental conditions. Urdaneta City, a key urban center in the

Philippines, has witnessed considerable transformations within its Central Business District

(CBD) over recent years. Understanding and documenting these changes are crucial for urban

planning and environmental management. This study aims to provide a comprehensive

assessment of land cover change and land temperature variations in the City over a five-year

period, specifically from 2000 to 2025. The following are the research objectives to support the

given research questions:

1. To determine the extent of land cover change in Urdaneta City over a five-year period,

specifically from 2000 to 2025.

2. To examine the spatial pattern of land temperature in Urdaneta City over a five-year period,

specifically from 2000 to 2025.

3. To projection of land cover change and land temperature in Urdaneta City by 2030?

Conceptual Framework

The Driver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) framework, first articulated in 1999, serves

as an instrumental analytical tool for understanding the complex interactions between human

activities and environmental conditions.

 DPSIR FIGURE

This framework provides a structured approach to assess how societal drivers and pressures lead

to changes in environmental states, subsequently causing impacts and necessitating appropriate

responses. The DPSIR framework emphasizes the need to integrate ecological, social, and

economic sectors to comprehensively depict the dynamics influencing environmental change.

In the context of Urdaneta city, the relevance of the DPSIR framework becomes particularly

pronounced as it understands the land cover change and land temperature fluctuations over time.

Rapid urbanization and developmental pressures in urban areas contribute significantly to shifts

in land use, which simultaneously influence local microclimates, such as elevated land

temperatures. By analyzing the extent of land cover chaSSSnges and the variations in land

temperature over a defined five-year period, specifically from 2000 to 2025, we can discern the

drivers of these transformations and ascertain their potential impacts on the urban environment.

Moreover, this study aims to project future scenarios up to the year 2030 regarding the probable

extent of land cover change in the city. By employing the DPSIR framework, the study is not

limited in evaluating historical and current trends but also formulate strategic responses to

mitigate adverse effects and enhance urban resilience. Ultimately, understanding these

interrelationships can guide urban planning and policy decisions, ensuring sustainable

development that accommodates both economic growth and environmental stewardship. The

outcomes of this research hold significant implications for stakeholders involved in urban

management and environmental conservation in Urdaneta City.

Significance of the Study

The study of land cover changes is integral to understanding the ecological balance of Urdaneta

City. Urbanization often leads to habitat destruction, decreased biodiversity, and altered water

cycles. By analyzing land cover changes, it is possible to identify critical areas needing

conservation efforts and promote sustainable practices. Additionally, the investigation of the

HUI effect highlights how urbanization can exacerbate climate-related challenges, such as

increased energy consumption, diminished air quality, and heightened heat-related health risks.

This knowledge is crucial for devising strategies to enhance environmental resilience in the face

of climate change.

Studying land cover change and the heat urban island (HUI) effect in Urdaneta City provides

invaluable insights for policymakers. Understanding how land use practices influence

temperature variations can aid the LGU in developing targeted interventions to mitigate the

effects of urban heat. Data-driven strategies can lead to more effective urban planning, zoning

regulations, and the preservation of green spaces, fostering a more sustainable and livable

environment for residents. Reliable information can enhance disaster preparedness related to heat

waves, protecting vulnerable communities and promoting public health initiatives. Furthermore,

urban planners can greatly benefit from this study as it provides critical insights that inform land-

use policies and development strategies. By understanding how changes in land cover affect

urban heat dynamics, planners can design cities that are more resilient to temperature extremes.

This includes integrating green infrastructure, optimizing land use, and implementing sustainable
drainage systems. The study can also provide empirical evidence for advocating smart growth

initiatives, promoting urban designs that foster ecological health, and improving overall quality

of life for city dwellers.

For the researcher, this study offers an opportunity to contribute to a growing body of knowledge

on urban studies, climate adaptation, and sustainability. By conducting field research, utilizing

remote sensing technology, and engaging with community members, researchers can enhance

their methodological expertise while establishing a significant academic foundation. The

findings from this study can not only advance the understanding of the dynamics of urban

environments but also provide a basis for further research inquiries related to socio-economic

impacts, policy implications, and interdisciplinary approaches. Future researchers will find this

study a valuable resource for exploring the relationship between urbanization and environmental

changes. The data and findings can serve as a benchmark against which subsequent research can

be measured. Additionally, researchers interested in comparative studies can use Urdaneta City's

findings to contextualize land cover change and HUI effects in other urban settings, both locally

and globally. By contributing to a comprehensive understanding of urban issues, this work will

inspire further explorations into solutions for urban sustainability and resilience.

In summary, the study of land cover change and the heat urban island effect in Urdaneta City is

of great significance across various stakeholders. It holds potential benefits for the local

government, environmental health, researchers, urban planners, and future academic endeavors,

all contributing to a collaborative approach toward sustainable urban development. As Urdaneta

City continues to grow, examining these phenomena will be crucial for ensuring a balanced and

resilient urban ecosystem.

Methodology

Research Design

This study is descriptive research using time series data, spatial analysis, and a simulation tool to

assess the extent of land cover change and land temperature variation in Urdaneta City,

Pangasinan. A quantitative approach will be use to answer the given research questions through

quantitative data analytics. This chapter outlines the specific approach will be use in the research

to accomplish the stated goal.

The extent of land cover change

To quantify land cover change in Urdaneta City, Pangasinan, using Geographic Information

Systems (GIS), a systematic, multi-step procedure will be followed, focusing on five-year

intervals from 2000 to 2025. Initially, satellite imagery and aerial photographs from available

source, Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) data,

will be collected for the years 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, 2020, and 2025. After preprocessing the

images to correct for atmospheric influences and geometric distortions, supervised classification

techniques will be employed to categorize the five identified land cover classes, including water,

trees, grass, crops, and built area. This classification will be converted to vector file (maps) that

will be analyzed to quantify the area of each land cover type at every interval, enabling the

calculation of change statistics, such as the rate of expansion of urban areas versus the loss of

agricultural or water area. In mapping the changes, specific colors will be use to present land
cover type, such as red (built-up area), orange (crops), grass (yellow), green (trees), and blue

(water). Finally, results will be visualized using GIS tools to create change detection maps and

graphs, highlighting trends and facilitating further analysis of the socio-economic implications of

land cover dynamics in Urdaneta City.

The spatial pattern of Temperature

To determine the spatial pattern of temperature changes in Urdaneta City, Pangasinan, using

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) during the summer months, a systematic approach will

be employed. The study will encompass a dataset covering five-year intervals from 2000 to

2025, whereby the first step involves gathering historical temperature data from reliable

meteorological sources or national weather services. This data, focusing on average summer

temperatures, will then be organized into a chronological dataset. Following data acquisition,

GIS software will be utilized to preprocess and analyze the temperature data, converting it into a

raster format suitable for spatial analysis. The spatial interpolation techniques, such as Kriging or

Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW), will be applied to generate comprehensive temperature maps

for Urdaneta City at each five-year interval. The resulting temperature layers will then be

analyzed using spatial analysis tools to identify trends, hotspots, and patterns of temperature

change over the specified period. Additionally, statistical tools will be employed to quantify

temperature variations and correlations, allowing for a robust understanding of how climate

trends may impact the local environment and community. Finally, the findings will be visualized

through thematic maps and charts, summarizing the spatial dynamics of temperature changes in

Urdaneta City CBD as compared to the nearby places.

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