Accumulated deforestation in the Cerrado Biome (1999 to 2019)

This dataset consists of a series of geospatial files representing accumulated deforestation data within each 28 km grid cell across the Cerrado biome for the years 1999 to 2019. Each raster file (in .tif format) corresponds to a specific year and captures the cumulative deforestation extent for that period. These raster files can be analyzed to visualize and quantify changes in land cover over time, offering crucial insights into the impacts of deforestation in this ecologically significant region.We calculated the extent of native vegetation loss between 1999 and 2019 using the land-use and land-cover classification dataset from the MapBiomas project, collection 7 (mapbiomas.org). To match the land-use and land-cover change data with the climate data, we transformed MapBiomas maps into a time-series of accumulated percentage of forest loss per grid cell, at a spatial resolution of 28×28 km. Finally, the spatial allocation of soy-maize double cropping is performed<i> </i>using the Otimizagro model, a spatially explicit model that simulates land use and land-use changes, including agriculture, forestry, native vegetation loss, and regeneration, under scenarios of agricultural land demand and Brazilian environmental policies.Description of Files<b>TIF Files:</b> Each <code>.tif</code> file, such as <code>desmatamento_1999.tif</code>, stores spatial data reflecting the accumulated deforestation for the respective year. These files contain the pixel values that quantify deforestation extent and can be analyzed using GIS software to explore spatial patterns and trends across the Cerrado.<b>XML Auxiliary Files (.tif.aux.xml):</b> These small <code>.xml</code> files serve as auxiliary metadata files accompanying each raster file. They typically provide additional metadata or parameters used by some GIS applications to properly render or process the raster data.Usage and AnalysisThe dataset is critical for:<b>Monitoring Deforestation Trends:</b> By comparing raster files year-over-year, stakeholders can assess the rate and extent of deforestation, identifying hotspots and temporal trends in land cover change.<b>Policy and Conservation Planning:</b> The data provides evidence needed to inform conservation strategies and policymaking efforts aimed at protecting the Cerrado's biodiversity while balancing land use demands.<b>Research and Environmental Impact Studies:</b> Researchers can leverage this data to model environmental impacts, evaluate ecological risks, and develop sustainable land-use practices.Software for Viewing and AnalysisTo visualize and analyze these raster files, consider using free and open-source GIS software such as QGIS. QGIS supports <code>.tif</code> files and allows for sophisticated geospatial analysis and visualization, making it an invaluable tool for interpreting deforestation data in the Cerrado.In summary, this dataset forms a comprehensive record of deforestation in the Cerrado over two decades, offering a vital resource for understanding and addressing environmental challenges in this critical biome.