Forest 4.0: Digitalization of forest using the Internet of Things (IoT)

Abstract

“Digitalization of forest”, as this phrase itself suggests the sustainable implementation of cutting-edge technologies into forests for improving the current trends that are being used for forest environment monitoring, data acquisition, and analysis in the field of research and development. Technologies that can be used effectively for achieving these objectives include the Internet of Things, Wireless Sensor Networks, Internet of Trees, Deep Learning, etc. In this study, we will be exploring and assimilating the limitless possibilities for technological interventions in forests to drastically improve their ecosystem. Intelligent systems for sensing, monitoring, and methods for analysis to be used in applications such as forest fire incidents, illegal logging of trees, poaching, etc. have been discussed briefly. In addition to that, generalized architectures have been proposed which can be used directly in the future for advancements in research and development related to data collection and processing applications like flora analysis, forest fire predictions, etc. without the need for any changes in forest deployment systems. Various methods for enhancement of tribal livelihood, high yield marketing of minor forest produces, and wildlife monitoring is also discussed relating to the areas concentric on the forest environment. Effective connectivity, sustained deployment of real-time sensing systems, and energy harvesting are some of the vital recommendations included and addressed in this study for aiding the proper implementation of digital networks in the forest ecosystem.

Keywords

• Digital network
• Forest
• IoT
• Minor forest produce
• Real-time sensing
• Tribal livelihood