NatureNexus

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Introduction

NatureNexus utilizes BioGuard, an artificial intelligence system, to detect deforestation occurrences within the Amazon rainforest. BioGuard collects data using an assortment of ground-based sensors such as acoustic, temperature, and camera sensors. It also employs advanced satellite technologies including Lidar, SAR, and Optical imaging to collect information from space. The amassed data is then inputted into BioGuard, where it undergoes processing to generate detailed reports. Simultaneously, for the purpose of monitoring reforestation efforts, the application employs Bioledger, a blockchain technology that creates a thorough log of all planted trees and supervises their continuous growth and development.

Inspiration

The primary goal of creating this application was to offer assistance to forest rangers, researchers, scientists, and communities residing in the Amazon region as they work to address the extensive issue of deforestation, which is inflicting substantial damage upon our ecosystem. The information collected via BioGuard can be shared with the global community, enabling collaborative actions and potential improvements to be identified and implemented. The impetus for introducing Bioledger arose from the difficulties linked to accurately monitoring trees and maintaining precise records of data. An interviewee highlighted the substantial exertion involved in recording and managing tree planting data. By integrating Bioledger, a blockchain technology, users now possess the capability to effectively supervise all recently planted trees and oversee their developmental trajectory. This method not only reduces the risk of human errors but also establishes a more robust framework for data recording that prioritizes security.

How does the application work?

Step 1: Getting Started

1- Download and install the NatureNexus app from your device's app store. 2- Open the app and create a new account if you don't have one already. If you have an account, log in using your credentials.

Step 2: Onboarding and Overview

1- After logging in, you'll be taken through an onboarding process to familiarize you with the app's features. 2- The dashboard will be your starting point. Here, you'll find an overview of deforestation and reforestation activities in the Amazon rainforest.

Step 3: Deforestation Monitoring

1- To monitor deforestation, tap the "+" button on the dashboard to create a new project. 2- A new screen will appear, showing a map. Use your finger to draw a polygon on the map, outlining the specific area you want to monitor for deforestation. 3- Once the monitoring zone is selected, choose the type of surveillance you need. You can opt for ground-based sensors, satellite technologies, or a combination of both. 4- Customize your settings and preferences for monitoring. 5- The AI system, BioGuard, will start collecting data from sensors and satellites based on your settings. 6- Reports will be generated based on the gathered data, highlighting any deforestation activities. 7- If a concerning situation arises, you can share the data and set alerts. Alerts will be sent to local communities, forest rangers, and other relevant personnel for swift action against deforestation.

Step 4: Reforestation Tracking

1- For reforestation projects, tap the "+" button on the dashboard to create a new project. 2- Enter tree information such as species, quantity, coordinates, and planting date. 3- Once all information is entered, the system generates a unique QR code specific to your planting project. 4- This QR code is stored in the activity section. 5- When the planting team opens the app, they will see the QR code in their activity section or it can be distributed through printed materials. 6- As the team plants trees, they can scan each QR code using the app. 7- The planting information is saved in the system. 8- After verification through the Blockchain consensus system, the planting data is recorded permanently. 9- This allows remote monitoring of the planted trees' growth and progress.

Step 5: Continuous Engagement

1- Regularly check the dashboard for updates on deforestation and reforestation activities. 2- Explore the app to read about communities' roles in the Amazon's health and other relevant information.

Step 6: Updates and Improvement

1- The app will receive regular updates to enhance its functionality and address any issues. 2- Keep an eye out for notifications about updates and improvements.

Challenges I ran into

Throughout the design phase, I encountered challenges in consolidating the information effectively. The concepts of AI and blockchain were relatively unfamiliar to me, and I struggled to distill them into a simplified yet comprehensive form that would be understandable and reliable for both local and global users in the years to come. The overarching goal was to create a solution that addresses deforestation concerns and facilitates reforestation tracking. To enhance my comprehension of these concepts, I undertook efforts to learn more about them. Leveraging my understanding, I endeavored to integrate these concepts into the design with the aim of making them accessible and impactful.

Accomplishments that I'm proud of

Crafting a globally impactful app proved challenging. Simplifying complexity for users was a puzzle. Interviews highlighted user struggle with the topic's intricacy. Usability tests, however, revealed a transformation. The once intricate content became easily navigable. A sense of pride blossomed as user experience improved, demonstrating that perseverance and creativity can simplify even the most complex challenges.

What I learned

Throughout the journey, I've gleaned that deforestation is a global predicament with multifaceted causes. Addressing this challenge necessitates collaboration among communities, stakeholders, NGOs, and governments. My project merely scratches the surface, as a long path lies ahead, reliant on crucial partnerships.

Conversely, reforestation largely hinges on human efforts, vulnerable to human errors and limited site supervision. This is where technology emerges as the driving force. Existing technologies have limitations, like connectivity issues for forest crews or incomplete satellite imagery within dense rainforest canopies.

What's next for NatureNexus

Development and Testing:

1- The NatureNexus application would first undergo an extensive development and testing phase to ensure its functionality, usability, and security. 2- Collaborations with environmental organizations, researchers, and tech experts would help refine the app's features and capabilities.

**Cloud Infrastructure:*

Utilizing scalable cloud infrastructure would allow the application to handle increased data traffic and user interactions without compromising performance.

Global Access:

The app's availability on major app stores and partnerships with satellite providers would enable access to users around the world, facilitating scalability.

Regular Updates:

Continuous updates based on user feedback and emerging technologies would ensure the app remains relevant and effective as it scales.

Collaboration with Stakeholders:

Partnerships with various stakeholders, including environmental organizations and government agencies, would help in scaling efforts.

Built With

• figjam
• figma
• usabilityhub