“The easiest solution to the problems with wild mammals is to remove them,” teacher and project leader Monique Vissers says jokingly. “But that's not what we want. Biodiversity is incredibly important for a healthy and balanced habitat, also for humans.”
That the number of wild mammals has increased has been a conscious decision by policymakers. But not everyone is equally happy about it, Vissers knows. “Hunters and farmers, for example, have different interests than governments and conservation organizations.”
In the national project WildlifeNL, various parties are trying to come up with solutions to the clash between humans and animals, nature and recreation. “The approach of the project is that research, including smart technology, can play an important role in this,” Vissers argues.
“Technology can help us gain a better understanding of the interactions between humans and wildlife. Insights that can be crucial for better policy making.”
Data platform and apps
Fontys ICT is one of the project partners within Wildlife NL and will mainly be involved in developing a data platform and various applications that generate data. For example, where certain animals walk, at what time and what behavior they display. As well as the number of visitors present at any given time and whether there is interaction between humans and animals.
One of the students developing these applications is Eric Manders. Based on previously collected data, he is creating an app for nature managers so that they can better manage their natural areas and the animals living in them.
His task is to create an interface that is as good and easy to use as possible. “Nature managers should be able to see at a glance what the interaction is between humans and animals in their area, so they can take immediate action if necessary.”
Serious game
On Dec. 17, Eric will present the concept of the wildlife management app, along with the other students who worked on it. The app will be further developed by others over the next semester.
In addition to the data platform and applications, Fontys ICT is also going to develop a serious game. “The goal of this is for the parties involved to gain a better understanding of each other's views and interests,” Vissers said. “Only if you know what effect your behavior has on another, you can reach the solution of better wildlife management in the Netherlands together.”