Carbon dynamics modeling platform for costa rica's agricultural production systems
An open-access consultation platform that models carbon dynamics of main agricultural production systems in Costa Rica at the regional level. Supports decision-making for land management aligned with the country's 2018-2050 decarbonization plan, focusing on coffee and pineapple crops.
Overview
This solution addresses the need for accessible tools to understand carbon dynamics in Costa Rica's agricultural sector, a key area identified in the national decarbonization plan for 2018-2050. The platform will model carbon dynamics over time for the main production systems at the regional level, focusing on coffee and pineapple crops. By consolidating land use information, carbon storage estimates, and land use change analysis into a single open-access consultation platform, the tool enables local and regional governments to make informed decisions about agricultural land management and its implications for decarbonization efforts.
Technical specifications
Key components:
- Land use mapping of agricultural production systems, validated and updated through satellite image interpretation and field validation
- Land use change analysis over a defined time period
- Carbon storage estimation and modeling for each production system studied
- Raster image analysis to categorize the region by carbon dynamics
- Open-access consultation platform consolidating all generated data and models
Focus crops: Coffee and pineapple, representing the primary agricultural production systems in the study area
Data inputs: Existing agricultural production system maps, satellite imagery, field validation data, and land use change records
Technology readiness level
The project is in the development and validation phase. Existing maps of agricultural production systems are available and will be refined through satellite image interpretation and on-the-ground validation. Future development will leverage existing alliances with research groups including CATIE and regional UCR headquarters, as well as partnerships with coffee and pineapple research entities and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock. The platform's creation will require database development, carbon modeling, raster image generation, and computer science expertise for the consultation interface.
About Universidad de Costa Rica
Universidad de Costa Rica is a comprehensive public research university headquartered in San José and the country’s principal generator of research. Its on‑campus research complex, the Ciudad de la Investigación, co‑locates institutes and shared labs next to the main campus, streamlining joint work and facility access. Industry engagement runs through PROINNOVA for IP, licensing and collaboration, while AUGE offers incubation and acceleration that connect companies with prototypes and talent. Projects are supported by national funding via the FEES mechanism coordinated by CONARE and by competitive programs from MICITT. Standardized material‑transfer processes further de‑risk partnerships and speed execution.
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