Lasers and Forests: How Japan is Saving Nature with Cutting-Edge Technology

Japan is using advanced laser technology to create detailed 3D maps of its forests to prevent and manage natural disasters more effectively. According to the Japanese Forestry Agency, quoted by Japan Times, technical teams carry out laser scans of forest land to identify areas vulnerable to landslides, earthquakes and heavy rainfall.

The project aims to map more than 80% of the country's 25 million hectares of forests over the next 18 months. Researchers will use aircraft equipped with laser systems that can detect changes in the terrain that are hard to see with the naked eye, such as underground cracks or areas at high risk of collapse.

The initiative was launched in the aftermath of the 7.5-magnitude earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, causing widespread landslides. The 3D maps will enable authorities to identify potentially high-risk areas early and implement preventive measures.

The Japanese government is subsidizing the program locally, and so far 60% in the country's forests have already been mapped and analyzed. Forestry officials believe the technology will significantly improve forest management and protection in the event of future natural disasters.