Modelling land-based mitigation technologies (LMTs) with ALCES Flow: A participatory modelling platform for landscape simulation and ecosystem carbon emission analyses

Wildfire incurs major environmental and economic losses in many areas of the world. Although climate change is playing an important role in changing fire frequency and magnitude, human management strategies can play an arguably comparable role. Managers must choose from a range of strategies to ensure viability of forest stands, but research supporting efficacy of different approaches is not always available. In Venezuela, forests regions are threatened by wildfires originating in adjacent Savannas. Participants engaging in research of new fire-management practices require the use of simulation models to explore the merits of potential management solutions. Two major challenges restrict the application of landscape simulations in land-management planning and discussions: (1) the complexity of simulation models can preclude use by individuals without a modeling background; and (2) the effort required to parameterize models – that is, establish values for all the requisite variables – for new (or large) regions can be cost prohibitive. Web-based participatory modeling platforms provide an effective solution to model accessibility. There is a particular web-based platform, referred to as ALCES Flow, that can combine global data sets, cloud computing, and customizable interfaces to provide powerful yet accessible landscape simulations.

Faculty Supervisor:

David Atkinson

Student:

Partner:

ALCES

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Environmental Science and Technology; Sustainability & the Environment; Public Service, Policy, and Governance

University:

University of Victoria

Program: