Ultra-high resolution 3D imagery for assessing biomass
The necessity of cost efficient methodologies for estimating carbon dioxide emissions caused by land-use change, deforestation and forest degradation increased markedly in the last decade, as global change further accelerates. Most methods rely on either correlating land use maps with field measurements or direct measurements with i.e. airborne SAR or Lidar data. Both strategies are associated with extreme high costs, especially in the tropics, if high levels of precision are to be obtained. In addition, direct biomass estimations with SAR or Lidar data still lack reliability and operational application.
In close cooperation with the German Space Agency (DLR), RSS develops a method for estimating above ground biomass by using ultra-high resolution aerial line scanner data. By applying automated photogrammetric algorithms, 3-dimensional information may be extracted. This technology was successfully applied to high resolution 3D city- and landscape modelling (www.reality-maps.de) for planning, monitoring and hazard management purposes. Several pilot projects were accomplished with the new and cost-effective ulra-high resolution 3D camera technology in Europe and Southeast Asia.
RSS investigates the potential for forestry-related-issues, like discriminating age classes, forest types and degradation patterns in tropical and boreal forests. It is anticipated that the data will allow very precise and cost-effective information on above ground biomass. First 3D imagery of tropical rain forests and oil palm plantations taken over Sumatra Riau are promising.
3D model of a boreal forest stand in Bavaria, Germany
Oil palm plantation in Riau, Sumatra
Links
http://www.dlr.de/os/desktopdefault.aspx/tabid-4349//7058_read-10438/