Evaluating the Sensitivity of Spectral Indices for Detecting Waste Dumping Sites Using Satellite Imagery

Open dumping sites are areas that have various negative impacts on their surroundings. Waste stack piled up haphazardly not only emit disgusting smell into the environment but also threaten the health of vegetation and wetlands. Therefore, the identification and temporal monitoring of such areas are valuable for decision-makers. In this study, Sentinel imageries covering four-year period were used for the open dumping site currently being used in Bartin province of Türkiye. Dumping Detection Index (DDI), designed to identify such sites, was calculated for each year. Additionally, the Global Environment Monitoring Index (GEMI), which was reported to be under-evaluated for dumping sites in the literature, was calculated. The expansion of the site over the years was evaluated comparatively for both indexes and the areas where subsequent deposition was carried out were determined. The identified regions were supported by change graphs as well as average index values. The relationship between GEMI and DDI was shown to be directly proportional to the amount of waste deposited, regardless of the magnitude of the spread on the ground. It was also been demonstrated that GEMI provides more evident visual results than DDI for stored waste and surrounding vegetation.