Leveraging Remote Sensing and Geospatial Technologies in Soil and Water Resources Mapping and Characterization: A Review

Soil and groundwater, important natural resources, are essential for sustaining ecosystem health and maintaining agricultural production. However, both resources are under severe threat due to increasing demand for human consumption, agricultural operations and industrial activities. This situation warrants accurate monitoring and mapping to ensure their sustainable use. Since conventional methods are expensive and cumbersome, there is a need for innovative alternative approaches. The integration of remote sensing, Geographical information systems (GIS) and advanced geospatial technologies offers effective solutions for mapping and monitoring soil and groundwater. These tools provide accurate, cost-effective methods for estimating soil properties, detecting land degradation processes such as soil salinization and identifying potential groundwater zones. High-resolution satellite imagery, combined with machine learning, enables digital soil mapping, improving assessments of soil variability and land suitability. The adoption of these advanced technologies has revolutionized soil and groundwater assessment. Digital soil mapping enhances understanding of land resources, while remote sensing and GIS facilitate environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture. This article systematically underscores the role of these technologies in soil and groundwater management, highlighting their importance in resource sustainability.