During phase i, we will demonstrate the feasibility of a proposed platform for automated characterization of carbon assets by developing foundational machine learning tools

This will include identification and validation of useable datasets for areas with known biomass density, and development of machine learning models linking multi-modal geospatial data, both on a pixel and regional level, with mappings of above-ground biomass. We will apply these mappings to validated historical data in order to develop predictive models based on long-short term neural networks, capable of forecasting biomass accumulation over time for vegetated areas. These models will be applied to existing predictions of land-use change in a demonstration region, identifying high-priority targets for conservation efforts and planning intervention. Combining historical data and accurate and automated measurement of carbon sequestration capacity with predictions of land use changes will serve to provide invaluable insight into priority areas that represent a high-risk of sequestered carbon loss on a regional scale. Additionally, such tools will enable rapid identification of the carbon cost of local actions impacting land use conversion, allowing examination of these impacts in consideration of triple bottom line. We propose to develop a globally deployable region-focused platform to evaluate the current carbon storage and future sequestration potential of vegetated areas with enhanced spatial and temporal resolution. The platform will accurately predict the impact of forecasted land-use changes and support planning, mitigation, and conservation efforts. Policymakers and land-use management entities may employ the tool to directly evaluate the impact of planning decisions in terms of region-wide carbon goals. Commercial entities which own carbon assets, or which conduct activities impacting land use, may use such characterizations of carbon impact to meet environmental and climate regulations, or participate in carbon offset or carbon credit trading programs. Finally, as carbon sequestering assets become an insurable commodity, evaluation of their value and any potential risks will provide insurance providers direct value in managing portfolios.