Mapping dynamic peri-urban land use transitions across Canada using Landsat time series: Spatial and temporal trends and associations with socio-demographic factors

Transformations of agriculture and natural lands to urban use are dominant well known effects urbanization, but consistent reliable methods map regional-scale land transitions limited. Herein, we develop a classification approach assess spatiotemporal patterns expansion associated changes. We utilized 33-year annual time series (1984–2016) fractional characteristics cover data from Landsat satellite imagery summarize multidecadal on the pixel census dissemination area level for 18 major Canadian cities. Across Canada, 41% peri-urban areas analyzed experienced transition, converting about 2,700 sq-km and/or an use. West coast observed greatest conversion (39%). In contrast, Prairies (i.e. west-center stratum) transition (41%), while west- east-center marked rates (3.9 3.5% per annum sq-km, respectively). Current high population densities were generally with historic losses or use, regional differences in correlations between trends current levels income, new residential construction, single-detached housing highlight potential influence policies socio-economic trajectories. The developed dynamic provides reliable, transparent, nationally method tabulate intensity across various scales may enhance interpretation interdisciplinary studies involving social community outcomes.