Multi-Aspect Critical Assessment of Applying Digital Elevation Models in Environmental Hazard Mapping
Maan Habib, Ahed Habib, Mohammad Abboud
Abstract
Digital elevation models (DEMs) are essential tools in environmental science, particularly for hazard assessments and landscape analyses. However, their application across multiple environmental hazards simultaneously remains in need for a multi-aspect critical assessment to promote their effectiveness in comprehensive risk management. This paper aims to review and critically assess the application of DEMs in mapping and managing specific environmental hazards, namely floods, landslides, and coastal erosion. In this regard, it seeks to promote their utility of hazard maps as key tools in disaster risk reduction and environmental planning by employing high-resolution DEMs integrated with advanced geographic information systems. The findings offer valuable insights into optimizing DEM technology for environmental management, contributing to safer and more resilient communities. The paper addresses an important gap in the geospatial analysis of natural hazards and serves as a foundational reference for future advancements in the field, emphasizing its importance to academic researchers and practical stakeholders in environmental and disaster management.