Abstract

Urban vegetation plays a vital role in mitigating the impacts of urbanization, improving biodiversity, and providing key ecosystem services. However, the spatial distribution, ecological dynamics, and social implications of urban vegetation remain insufficiently understood, particularly in underrepresented regions. This systematic review aims to synthesize global research trends in very-high-resolution (VHR) remote sensing of urban vegetation between 2000 and 2024. A total of 123 peer-reviewed empirical studies were analyzed using bibliometric and thematic approaches, focusing on the spatial resolution (<10 m), sensor type, research objectives, and geographic distribution. The findings reveal a predominance of biophysical studies (72%) over social-focused studies (28%), with major thematic clusters related to urban climate, vegetation structure, and technological applications such as UAVs and machine learning. The research is heavily concentrated in the Global North, particularly China and the United States, while regions like Latin America and Africa remain underrepresented. This review identifies three critical gaps: (1) limited research in the Global South, (2) insufficient integration of ecological and social dimensions, and (3) underuse of advanced technologies such as hyperspectral imaging and AI-driven analysis. Addressing these gaps is essential for promoting equitable, technology-informed urban planning. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the state of the field and offers directions for future interdisciplinary research in urban remote sensing.