Researchers looking at how to cut deforestation and help farmers adapt to changing conditions usually gather data through on-the-ground surveys in far-flung communities. That process can be “expensive and time consuming”, said Nou Keosothea, a director of programme development at Pannasastra University of Cambodia. Using the MobilES app, farmers will enter data about rainfall, food production, water quality and energy use. Researchers said they expect the pilot mobile app survey, which began in March with 480 participants, to be completed in 18 months. “We worry that the government doesn’t always know what is happening here on the ground,” she said - something she hopes the app can help change.

Source: thestar April 26, 2019 03:00 UTC