Forests cover nearly a third of the world’s land area, or about 4.06 billion hectares, according to FAO’s 2020 Global Forest Resources Assessment. However, this cover, which is essential for biodiversity, carbon sequestration and climate regulation, continues to decline, with an estimated loss of 178 million hectares between 1990 and 2020. In response to these challenges, innovative technologies, such as Viametris’ MS-96 mobile 3D scanner, provide solutions for more efficient and sustainable forest management.
Viametris’ MS-96 mobile 3D scanner uses LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology and high-resolution cameras to capture ultra-detailed point clouds, even in complex environments such as dense forests. Thanks to its millimeter precision and mobility, worn in backpack mode or mounted on an all-terrain vehicle offers unprecedented flexibility to explore and analyze forest ecosystems.
With these technologies, it becomes possible to:
By combining this data with machine learning models, teams can refine their management strategies and respond more effectively to forest needs.
Forests are sensitive areas often exposed to fires or storms. The MS-96 can help identify vulnerabilities thanks to its precise surveys:
After a storm or fire, the MS-96 is a valuable tool for quickly assessing the extent of the damage. It provides actionable data to forest managers, insurance companies and rescue organizations, and helps prioritize areas for reforestation or clearing.
In the context of the fight against climate change, the 3D scanner is also essential for researchers. It can be used to:
The point clouds generated by the MS-96 are not only used by scientists. They can be transformed into immersive 3D models for virtual tours or educational tools, helping to raise awareness among the general public about the richness and fragility of forest ecosystems. This data also facilitates the planning of environmentally friendly infrastructure, such as trails or recreational areas.
By combining versatility, speed and precision, the MS-96 mobile 3D scanner embodies an innovative and essential response to current challenges such as deforestation, climate change and biodiversity conservation.
