Restoration Monitoring Tool Finder

The Restoration Project Information Sharing Framework was developed by the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) and Climate Focus, in partnership with the Global Restoration Observatory (GRO), the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration Monitoring Task Force, and many other collaborators. The framework is intended to be flexible; users can choose the indicators that fit their project circumstances and goals. However, it does not provide specific guidance to the user in selecting the specific indicators to use for their project.

SEPAL uses Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud computers to process data using pre-programmed SEPAL applications or customized, user-created code (in R, Python, or in the terminal). The modules that are most relevant to restoration monitoring include SDG 15.3.1, which generates data for reporting on land degradation as part of SDG indicator 15.3.1 (similar to the Trends.Earth tool but using finer resolution data); SEPAL-MGCI beta, which supports computation of the Mountain Green Cover Index (MGCI) as part of SDG Indicator 15.4.2; Soil Moisture Mapping, which measures soil moisture over time such as for monitoring peatlands; and several time-series modules that can harness historical satellite imagery to derive measurements of land and tree cover change over time.

TerraMatch uses a standard framework of indicators that is applicable to most tree-based restoration projects. As the user submits their project updates from the field, using either the web browser or offline mobile application version, the incoming data is then visualized within TerraMatch’s monitoring dashboards. The platform combines self-reported, field-collected data with remote sensing-based data to set an independent baseline for each restoration site within each funded project that highlights biophysical indicators (like the percentage of tree cover) and socioeconomic indicators (like the number of jobs created), then tracks how they change over time. By comparing both independent and self-reported data, TerraMatch aims to bring transparency and credibility to locally led restoration projects. In 2022, 119 projects associated with the Priceless Planet Coalition and TerraFund for AFR100 began to submit regular reporting data onto TerraMatch. In 2023, the platform will launch targeted requests-for-proposals where restoration implementers in select regions can submit project proposals that are vetted according to standard criteria. The best applicants will receive technical assistance and funding to implement their projects. Over the following years, their progress will be closely monitored and their aggregated impact will be shown on accessible dashboards for certain project portfolios, landscapes, countries, and other geographical areas of interest.

TreeMapper was created for users of the on-the-ground partners of Plant-for-the-Planet projects, but other users can create a free online account at the Trillion Tree Campaign website. Users can choose to upload a polygon that contains summary information for large-scale tree plantings, or to upload points representing individual trees. Users can also customize the data collection form to include additional information, such as who planted the tree. The project’s online map and data on trees planted can be kept private or made publicly viewable. Project profiles can include additional information for stakeholders and donors, such as the number of people employed, causes of degradation, and project goals. Users cannot currently re-measure trees to track their progress over time, but this feature is scheduled to be added soon.

The three indicators used to calculate the SDG can be customized to suit the user’s needs by adjusting the period of analysis and various input datasets (i.e. default global datasets or custom finer spatial resolution datasets). The resolution of default integrated satellite data inputs range from 250-m to 8-km and the outputs are maps of each of the three indicators. In addition to monitoring progress towards UN SDG 15.3.1, countries have been successfully using Trends.Earth to report on their LDN commitments to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). The tool can be applied at global, regional, national scale using default data, but also at regional, national or subnational scales when using custom data to inform land use planning and to monitor land degradation and sustainable land management activities.

Veritree was designed to provide accountability for tentree, a sustainable apparel company that plants ten trees for every item of clothing sold. Other companies that want to support verified tree planting projects can now use the platform as well by contacting veritree. When organizations plant trees on behalf of companies, each tree is tokenized with a unique QR code so the tree can be tracked over time. Restoration implementers interested in working with veritree to monitor their efforts and access funding and businesses interested in using veritree to fund nature-based solutions should contact veritree.