Human-Environment Interactions and Application of Geospatial Technology. Coastal hazards, climate change and associated sea level rise are increasingly posing enormous threats to our planet’s ecosystems and human population. The East Coast is highly populated (approximately 25 million people) and impacted by coastal storms, sea-level-raise, floods, and shoreline erosions. Coastal Georgia has been facing numerous challenges due to both natural and human-induced causes. Over the last couple of decades overall development including new infrastructure building and human activities have increased compared to the past. According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in recent years the State has experienced back-to-back hurricane impacts that caused millions of dollars in damages and impacts on the local community. Geospatial Technologies (e.g., Geographic Information Systems, Remote Sensing, Global Positioning System, and Application of Drones/UAV) can help us to integrate coastal hazards risks and climate change impacts by collecting, analyzing, and mapping coastal environments for coastal resilience planning and adaptation through interdisciplinary approach for a particular area such as Tybee Island, GA.

Research plans with the REU participants. Students will have the opportunity to develop independent projects geared towards: 1) understanding Geographic aspects and human-environment dynamics in the coastal Georgia (e.g., Tybee Island), 2) using geospatial technology (UAV/Drones, GPS) to collect geospatial data, and 3) producing maps and models by using geospatial data that will be collected. Students will be able to contribute their own ideas, as well as collaborate with Dr. Rahman and other program faculty.

Visit Dr. Rahman's website for more information.