Ultra-Reduced-Impact-Encased-Logging (URIEL): propose a new method for selective sustainable logging and post-harvest silvicultural treatment in tropical forest using airborne robotics systems
Organizations: School of Agricultural Engineering, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, 13083-875, Brazil · School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, 13083-875, Brazil · Depart. of Agricultural, Forestry, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Basilicata, Viale Dell'Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100, Italy · Sorocaba Environmental Engineering, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Sorocaba, 18087-180, Brazil · Center for Engineering, Modeling and Applied Social Sciences, Federal University of ABC (UFABC), Santo André, 09280-560, Brazil
Abstract
Tropical forests worldwide are under intense deforestation pressure driven by economic and political interests, and scientific evidence suggests this deforestation contributes to climate change. This paper proposes a novel logging method for tropical forests, Ultra-Reduced-Impact-Encased-Logging (URIEL). This new method is based on heli-logging techniques combined with intensive use of robotics and AI integrated with post-harvest silvicultural treatments performed by drones. The concept of appropriate equipment for this method was developed, dimensions were determined, details were completed in a digital proof of concept, and an effective digital simulation and economic feasibility analysis were carried out for various helicopter-timber-distance combinations. The results demonstrated that a URIEL method has high economic viability and makes it possible to virtually eliminate collateral damage to forests while maintaining ecosystem services. The main conclusion of this paper is that, despite the satisfactory scientific and technological results, the feasibility of a Uriel method depends on the integration of stakeholders intrinsic to the context: high-tech industry; political governments; certified logging companies; and native populations.