Goals
ForestBrain is a tool to collect and share forest data. This data can then be placed into a bigger picture by its members. By working together, we can try to figure out: what do forests need in order to thrive? How can we best support the forests? And are our efforts actually working?
If we're gonna save the trees, we gotta have some P's. Here are 5 goals that all members share:
Preservation
To preserve existing species and help them flourish in their current habitat.
Logging activities have left their mark on the Philippines over the course of the last century. Now is a good time to cherish the remaining forests and make sure we're doing everything in our power to aid their wellbeing.
Propagation
To propagate vulnerable species, so they can be reintroduced in other habitats.
We all agree that planting trees is a good thing. But it's important to select suitable species for the area and have access to seedlings. And let's not forget that animals, birds and insects spread seeds in a natural way.
Protection
To protect ecosystems from the ongoing harm that humanity is inflicting on them.
Sometimes preservation is not enough. When destructive forces are threatening the balance or existence of an ecosystem, we need to stand up and be the voice of nature.
Production
To produce the things we rely on with sensible and scientific forest management.
It would be naive to think we can survive without taking anything from the forest. We need the forests as a source of building materials, fuel, medicine and most importantly: food.
Prosperity
To prosper as part of nature, together with the forest and all its inhabitants.
We need to find a balance between sustaining ourselves and allowing the biosphere to regenerate. This requires a large amount of self restraint, humility and 'indigenuity' on our part.
Benefits
There are already many individuals, communities, local governments and organizations working towards these common goals. By working together through ForestBrain, I hope we can:
Customization
Even though our motivations align on a higher level, in our everyday work we're probably focusing on different details and dealing with different challenges. Some of us may be campaigning for public awareness, while others contribute to the scientific debate.
This means that each FoodBrain member should be able to interact with the data in a way that is useful to them. So instead of providing a one-size-fits-all service, Foodbrain is deliberately designed to remain open and extensible. Maybe you want to connect your existing database, or add data types that are specific to your workflow. Maybe you need the data to be available offline. Or in a local dialect.