This book aims to summarize and report the major research achievements and validation results of the global land cover initiative led by the Group of Earth Observation (GEO). The first part of the book introduces the major tasks and challenges facing the validation of finer-resolution GLC maps and presents the concepts and overall framework of the GEO-led initiative. Chapters 2-5  provide systematic introductions to the major methodology of finer-resolution GLC map validation, including sampling design, reference data collection, sample labeling, and accuracy assessment. Chapter 6 introduces the online validation tools that have been developed, including their design, considerations, and functionalities. Chapter 7 presents the international validation practices and the results of validating GlobeLand30 at country, regional, and global scales. Future directions are also discussed in the Conclusion.

 Features

• Presents complete coverage of land cover validation, from concepts, methodology, and collaborative tools to applications.
• Details algorithms, techniques, and methods for land cover validation including sampling, judgment, and accuracy assessment.
• Reviews some of the software tools that can be used for GLC validation and discusses the issues related to the design, usability, efficiency, and limitations of these tools.
• Highlights case studies of validation at global, regional, and national scales, which can serve as great references for researchers.
• Provides an extensive bibliography covering the whole scope of land cover validation.

Global Land Cover Validation: Methodology, Tools, and Practices serves as a reference for those engaged in land cover validation, especially at a global scale, including students, professionals, researchers, and general practitioners. It is also an excellent resource for professionals involved in sustainable development monitoring, environmental change studies, natural resource management, disaster assessment and mitigation, and many other applications.