How have RPAS helped monitor forests and what can we apply in forest restoration monitoring?

Author(s)

Sinegalia, Melodie Kern Sarubo Dorth ; Santoro, Giulio Brossi ; Molin, Paulo Guilherme

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: RESTORATION ECOLOGY; v. 32, n. 1, p. 12-pg., 2023-12-12.

Abstract

We are currently experiencing an unprecedented moment in forest restoration, where monitoring activities in recovery areas play a vital role in problem identification and method adaptation. However, it is crucial to shift away from expensive traditional methodologies and develop technologies that enable large-scale monitoring using more accessible and cost-effective tools. In an effort to provide an evidence-based perspective, we conducted a systematic review of how remotely piloted aircraft systems equipped with various sensors have been employed for forest monitoring. We consulted three databases and included 53 articles in our review. The results revealed a trend toward research in tropical ecosystems, with forest structure being the most frequently assessed attribute, and canopy height being the most widely measured structural indicator. Red-green-blue sensors were commonly used, both individually and in combination with others, and there was a noticeable shift toward the use of light detection and ranging. Data validation primarily relied on forest inventory methods, often involving comparisons of outputs from different sensors and the use of artificial intelligence algorithms. Despite the wide range of studies utilizing sensor-equipped drones to analyze forest attributes, there is a notable scarcity of research specifically addressing the application of these technologies in forest restoration monitoring. Filling this research gap is essential, as employing techniques that enable large-scale monitoring, such as aerial photogrammetry and remote sensing, aligns with current trends and contributes to global commitments to environmental restoration and conservation. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 20/06694-8 - BIOTA SYNTHESIS - Nucleus of Analysis and Synthesis of Nature-Based Solutions
• Grantee: Jean Paul Walter Metzger
• Support Opportunities: BIOTA-FAPESP Program - Problem-Oriented Research Centers in São Paulo
• FAPESP's process: 20/15792-3 - Creating spaces for ecosystem restoration by increasing operational efficiency in the harvest of sugarcane
• Grantee: Giulio Brossi Santoro
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• FAPESP's process: 23/00241-0 - Modeling aboveground biomass in São Paulo State Atlantic Forest: an upscalling approach
• Grantee: Giulio Brossi Santoro
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 21/11940-0 - Restoration of native vegetation in the Atlantic Forest through the strategic combination of mandatory measures and voluntary commitments - CCD-EMA
• Grantee: Paulo Guilherme Molin
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Science Centers for Development
• FAPESP's process: 18/18416-2 - Understanding restored forests for benefiting people and nature - NewFor
• Grantee: Pedro Henrique Santin Brancalion
• Support Opportunities: BIOTA-FAPESP Program - Thematic Grants