ForForestInnovation
In the project we created an interactive 3D app using a digital twin of Styrian forests to make the effects of management decisions and climate change easily understandable, helping policymakers, foresters, and the public plan for sustainable forest preservation.
The Client
Bfw
The Goal
Webpage accessible on all major platforms
Target Users
Forest owners and general public interest
Location and Language
Austria, German
Technologies
Three.js, SpeedTree, Blender, Javascript, Typescript, Virtual Reality
Climate Change & Forests
What are the expected changes in Austria’s climate?
Since the start of the 20th century, Austria’s average temperature has increased by around 1.9°C. By 2100, it is anticipated to rise by as much as 4°C. While precipitation patterns differ across regions, more extreme weather is predicted overall: heavier rainfalls, stronger storms, and prolonged dry spells. Such extreme conditions weaken trees and reduce their vitality.
What impact does climate change have on forests?
Climate change significantly influences forest ecosystems, which play a vital role for both the environment and society. Forests deliver essential benefits such as timber, renewable energy, recreation, carbon storage, and protection against natural hazards.
One of the greatest challenges is to keep forests productive, resilient, and stable as far as possible, while recognizing that not every development can be foreseen due to uncertain climate conditions.
How can forest owners help their forests?
To respond to climate change, forest owners need to manage their land sustainably and adapt to shifting conditions. A range of strategies exist to support forest health and resilience. Staying informed and seeking expert guidance are key steps. Only with forward-looking management can forests continue to provide their essential ecological, economic, and social functions for future generations.
The Project
The aim of the project is to highlight for both forests and their owners the importance of sustainable forest management for the future. Through an interactive 3D visualization, the forest and the consequences of management decisions for its future are made more visible.
Challenge
BFW needed a way to communicate the complex effects of climate change on Styrian forests to a broad audience. Traditional reports and datasets were difficult for non experts to understand and they lacked an engaging, interactive way to explore long term forest development and possible countermeasures.
Conclusion
We developed an interactive app powered by a digital twin of the Styrian forests using BFW’s extensive data. The app visualizes the current state of the forests, through simulations and forecasts future developments. It also highlights actionable measures that can improve forest resilience against climate change.
The Result
The application makes complex data easy to understand, enabling policymakers, foresters and the public to better plan for the future. By visualizing possible scenarios and solutions, it fosters informed decision making and supports long term strategies for preserving Styrian forests.
