Combining Natural Regeneration and Drone Technology for Large-Scale Restoration
This restoration project is a collaboration between MORFO and Saint-Gobain, focused on regenerating degraded land within the Bofete mining site in São Paulo, Brazil. The initiative aligns with Saint-Gobain’s environmental commitments and aims to enhance biodiversity, restore native vegetation, and ensure long-term ecosystem resilience.
Covering 119 hectares, the project is divided into two key areas:
56 hectares undergoing maintenance to sustain and improve current forest cover.
63 hectares designated for enrichment, where reforestation efforts will accelerate ecosystem recovery.
Using advanced technology such as drone-assisted seed dispersal, multispectral imaging, and soil analysis, the project ensures an efficient and scalable restoration approach.
"We started with a diagnostic phase and the team's professionalism and organization impressed us. The result was a detailed report with alternative methods and a cost-benefit comparison, guiding our future restoration decisions."
— Guilherme Denzin, Geology Manager - Saint Gobain Brazil
CHALLENGES
Invasive species: The dominance of Urochloa (Brachiaria) grass hinders natural regeneration and requires active management.
Soil conditions: The sandy and highly erodible soil has low organic matter and water retention, impacting plant establishment.
Mining legacy: The site's historical land use demands targeted interventions to restore ecosystem functions.
Variable forest structure: Some areas have mature trees, while others require significant enrichment to enhance biodiversity.
DEPLOYMENTS
119 hectares targeted for restoration, combining natural regeneration and direct planting strategies.
Drone-based seed dispersal, using native Cerrado species to accelerate reforestation.
Multispectral drone imaging to assess vegetation coverage and restoration progress.
Soil enhancement measures, including selective fertilization and organic matter restoration.
Strategic biodiversity restoration, creating nucleation islands to promote forest connectivity.
PROJECT MONITORING
Aerial monitoring: High-resolution drone imaging and NDVI analysis to track vegetation recovery.
On-ground biodiversity assessments, measuring species regeneration and soil health improvements.
Long-term monitoring framework to ensure sustained ecosystem recovery and compliance with environmental regulations.
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