Andorra Leads AI and 3D Scanning Pilot for Pyrenean Forest Inventories

Andorra Recerca + Innovació (AR+I) is leading a pilot study in the European BOSPIR-3D project, testing artificial intelligence, short-range 3D scanning, and other digital tools to improve forest inventories in high-mountain areas. The cross-border initiative, funded through the POCTEFA programme, began its fieldwork this week in Andorra, following an April kick-off meeting.

Teams have examined potential sites in Beixalís, La Rabassa, and Arinsal—locations chosen for their steep terrain and as typical subalpine forests suited to validating the technologies. The effort will start with traditional forest surveys, followed by advanced remote sensing, to evaluate accuracy, practicality, and potential for wider use.

Key techniques include terrestrial laser scanning with LiDAR SLAM for precise 3D structural models, alongside drones carrying LiDAR and multispectral sensors. These provide insights into tree arrangements, biomass, and carbon storage, while reducing on-site labour compared to manual methods. The project also incorporates AI and virtual reality to analyse and visualise forest data more efficiently.

AR+I sees the pilot as an opportunity to position Andorra as a hub for mountain tech innovation, tackling issues like climate impacts, biodiversity loss, fire risks, and sustainable management in Pyrenean woodlands. Results should aid regional planning and decision-making.

The programme emphasises training for forest managers and partners to share expertise, standardise approaches, and encourage digital adoption. Coordinated by the Centre de Ciència i Tecnologia Forestal de Catalunya, collaborators include AR+I, HAZI Fundazioa, and the Institut Européen de la Forêt Cultivée.