Design of an EIoT system for nature reserves: a case study in Shangri-La County, Yunnan Province, China

Abstract

The technology of Environmental Internet of Things (EIoT) has various advantages over conventional field data collection methods for better understanding of how nature reserves are protected and managed. This is mainly because EIoT systems can help collect a vast amount of real-time data, from which rich and dynamic information can be obtained for comprehensive analysis of spatial pattern and processes of key elements of nature resources, facilitating the sustainable management of nature reserves. However, there are practical considerations in the installation and maintenance of EIoT systems because of harsh environment and remote locations of many nature reserves. We did a preliminary EIoT experiment in Shangri-La County, Yunnan Province, China, based on which we proposed a technically simple solution for researchers to custom suitable EIoT instruments in nature reserves. We also put forward a few methods to calculate key parameters of power supply units and system availability. This EIoT system is configured for applications in nature reserves similar to that in Shangri-La County though further tests are necessary.