This paper presents a methodology as a pillar of circularity in forest industries by utilizing drone-borne Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology. The drone-borne SAR, an imaging radar, can significantly contribute to processes related to the three principles of circular economy: waste and pollution elimination, products and materials circulation, and nature regeneration.
The advancement in drone technology allows for flights at low altitudes, especially at 120 meters above ground, enabling arbitrary and precise flight trajectories with minimal preparation time for surveying areas of approximately 40 hectares per flight. The covered area is constrained by drone endurance, which has been steadily increasing over the years.
The methodology described herein leverages the images and interferometric information from three different bands of a commercial drone-borne radar: C band for surface imaging, L band for forest volume penetration, and P band for full forest and subsurface penetration. Algorithms have been developed to provide information on anthill locations and sizes to reduce bait usage and enhance the productivity of planted forests, monitor erosion to sustain forest and access road integrity, classify soil, and detect stone outcrops for decision-making purposes. Additionally, the methodology enables the measurement of trunk and root volumes to monitor carbon credits, conduct forest inventories of industrial forests to optimize productivity, and survey native forests for preservation purposes.
This paper illustrates the relationship between radar information and its contribution to the three pillars of circular economy, along with the corresponding improvements. Expected outcomes include a 10% reduction in waste and pollution, a 5% reduction in inputs with an up to 20% improvement in productivity, and a 5% increase in nature regeneration rate.
Keywords: Forest industry, Drone-borne imaging radar, Circular economy
REFERENCES – O PAPEL vol. 85, N.o 4, pp. 92 – 97- APR 2024
Authors:
Gian Carlos O. Huacles1,2, Hugo E. Hernandez-Figueroa2, Laila F. Moreira1, Elidio S. Frias1
1Radaz Indústria e Comércio de Produtos Eletrônicos S.A., São José dos Campos. Brazil
2School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas. Brazil
Corresponding author: Gian Carlos O. Huacles. RADAZ. Avenida Shishima Hifumi, 2911. São José dos Campos. 12.244-000. Brazil.
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