Examining the Spatio-temporal changes of Ecosystem Service Value Due to LULC changes: A Case Study on Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

Abstract Ecosystem services can provide information about the functioning of an ecosystem with all of its components. However, natural ecosystems are under immense pressure worldwide for the developing demands. Urbanization is likely to accelerate in the future, particularly in emerging economies, affecting both a local and regional scale. This study aims to assess ecosystem service valuation (ESV) for Cox's Bazar district because this is one of the most significant tourist spots and encountering tremendous LULC changes over the last few decades. Due to tremendous tourist pressure and the huge migration of Rohingyas, this ecologically crucial natural resource base, especially forest, wetland, and sea beaches, continuously suffer and impacts the ecological balance. Different ecosystem components triggered by LULC change & the individual function's value would influence ecosystem service values. Assessing the effects of different land-use scenarios on subsequent changes in ecosystem service has significant implications for sustainable development. This study included six different LULC classes and their effects on ESVs. LANDSAT satellite-derived images for 20 years’ time span from the year 2000 to the year 2021 have been used and calculated for ten years intervals except for the year 2017. In addition, for the years 2030 and 2040, the LULC map and accompanying ESV have been forecasted. Findings show which LULC classes are more prone to change ESV and how ESV changes in this period. The outcome of this study would assist in sustainable land management policy, controlling encroachment on forests, beach areas, and wetlands.