Geographical Information Systems (GIS), data analysis and visualisation

We are becoming increasingly reliant on data to make important environmental decisions. To assist with analysis and use of this data the Seafield Partnership has identified a need to collate and make best use of existing information through the use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS).

GIS combines database, spatial analysis and graphics technology, to provide a powerful method of summarising, analysing and modelling spatial data to support important management decisions. It allows the capture, storage, integration, analysis and output of spatial data, by using location as the common key between the data sets.

Kate Murray, an independent GIS Consultant collaborates closely with us to manage delivery of GIS services. Kate has a strong environmental background with over thirteen years work experience using GIS for application development. She has worked on a wide range of projects across the world covering the areas of oil and gas, risk management, contaminated site management, waste, renewable energy, pipelines, climate change, marine surveying and redevelopment.

Kate has worked with numerous clients from varying sectors within the environmental community. She is a highly experienced GIS practitioner and has the ability to find solutions and make GIS accessible to all users. This means that the Seafield Partnership is able to respond to the demand for both traditional and more inventive approaches to data presentation and analysis.

Seafield is also using spatially continuous mapping techniques for mapping and survey or seabed features and biotopes.

Remote Sensing

Remote sensed imagery is far more than pictures of the earth’s surface. It is a valuable source of data that captures actual events at specific times and places in the world so that we can study how the earth changes over time, as well as identify the features within it. We are able to view, interpret and analyse the different types of satellite imagery currently available (e.g. Landsat and Ikonos). This can be simply a visual interpretation or used as a powerful tool in helping to classify the land use of an area and identify community settlements.

To contact Kate please email her at KateMurray.GIS@gmail.com or telephone on 07504 576085.

Project Experience

Climate Change Risk Assessment

We are currently using GIS to explore the ways in which climate change may impact on worldwide facilities. Using data on current climate, climate vulnerability and climate change predictions we are able to look at patterns across the globe and use that information to determine facilities that may be most at risk - thus giving decision makers the tools to make their assessments.

Seismic Survey Environmental Impact Assessment, Africa

For this project we have reviewed the preliminary mapping for field survey visits and prepared maps for the second field visit using satellite imagery. We provided advice on data gaps and where further ground truthing was required. As a result of information obtained during a subsequent field survey, we were able to update the land cover classification and provide maps and statistics showing and quantifying the type of land that could be affected by the proposed operations.

Oil Spill Contingency Planning, Bulgaria

GIS is being used for mapping support for oil spill contingency planning in Bulgaria. Using both freely available imagery on the Internet and knowledge from specialists, we have been able to classify beaches and their sensitivity to an oil spill. Using GIS, we were able to quantify the length and type of beach for input into the contingency planning. For the same project we were also able to quantify the impact of the proposed project facilities on the land types and international and nationally sensitive protected areas.

Drilling Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Algeria

Throughout its lifetime we were able to give GIS support and advice to the project, including advice on development and implementation of GIS strategy and procedures. We collected, collated, mapped and presented data, (using interactive tools) to the project team on a regular basis. For the risk assessment we undertook analysis of scenarios (e.g. buffering features) so the team were able to visualise and quantify results.

Environmental and Social Sensitivity Mapping, West Africa

This project involved Collation of data from various sources, including satellite imagery. Through collaboration with various specialists we developed a map of land cover types through a land cover classification technique, hydrogeological analysis, mapping of social sensitivities and environmental features. A report was produced on the methodology and results and presented interactively.

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment, Russia

As well as mapping environmental and social sensitivities we had a role in technically reviewing all GIS outputs from various specialists. We were heavily involved in liaison with the client and sub- contractors to ensure the smooth flow of data. From this, we developed standards, procedures and quality of output from the GIS teams.

GIS Training

Throughout her career Kate has spent a lot of time training clients, usually on site, on the basics of GIS and the organisation of GIS data. This has been as one-to-one or group sessions. In addition she has trained technical specialists in how to use GIS for their particular needs.

Site Selection and EIA, Africa

Satellite imagery, vegetation and infrastructure were reviewed to create maps for the consultation process. Habitat analysis was then undertaken around the proposed pipeline routes to quantify land that might be disturbed. Cultural sites, beaches and fishing from field surveys were also mapped. This mapping was subsequently updated as new survey information was obtained.

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), Ireland

For the SEA GIS was used for the mapping of a proposed road and rail network and environmental sensitivities such as conservation designations, water quality network, heritage areas and national monuments. Using data from the air quality and noise assessments it was possible to determine the population affected by change in air quality or noise levels as a result of the scheme. In addition the results of the traffic assessment were mapped.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Africa

At the start of this project Landsat imagery was acquired and processed so it could be used both as a basemap and for visual interpretation of the area. Furthermore, data was collected from the client and other sources and collated to produce maps of the area to be assessed. This was overlaid with maps of the well sites and associated infrastructure. At the same time maps of potential environmental and social constraints were mapped for the EIA report.

Environmental Impact Assessment and Planning Application, Wales

This project included the mapping of environmental features including nature conservation designations, air quality contours, survey locations, and existing infrastructure for the EIA. For the planning application, maps had to be produced at specific scales, adhering to strict guidelines. Throughout the project an interactive GIS was used to display different layers of information for specialists within the project team.

Quantification of Health Effects Arising from Emissions at a Proposed Energy Site, England

By mapping air contour emissions and population density using GIS, we carried out an analysis of the emissions and the effect on the population. It was then possible to estimate the health effects that would result from the exposure to those emissions.