Changes in Land Covers in Two River Basins in Central Argentina Region. Monitoring the SDG 15.3.1 Indicator

This study provides an insightful analysis of land cover changes in two river basins in the central Argentina region and is focuses on monitoring the SDG 15.3.1 indicator and highlights the impacts of human and natural forces on land cover patterns at different scales. We analyze land cover transitions in seven land cover classes, at both basin and riverine scales, between the 1992–2015 period on the Suquía and Xanaes water- sheds. Land cover changes observed in this area were related mainly to the increase of artificial land covers, which indicates the possible increase of human impacts in this area, particularly a streamside scales. The paper highlights the relationship between land cover and water quality, particularly in the Suquia River, where urban and agricultural land covers pose a threat to the quality of resources. Urgent action is needed to mitigate human impacts, and an approach to managing riparian areas for better ecosystem maintenance and preservation is proposed. Aligned with SDG 15, our findings are relevant for sustainable resource management and provide essential insights for informed decision-making for the benefit of both the population and the environment.