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Method Factsheet - Smartphone App

Resource description:

The MapNat tool is designed to be applied by citizens and scientists who are interested in mapping the use of mainly cultural, but also some provisional and regulating, services and disservices. MapNat enables its users to map ES in three different ways as points, lines or areas on a map on their phone. Once the user selects a location, he/she is guided to a list to select the ES which are being used. Users can deliver additional information, e.g. about the vegetation, or provide comments or a photograph. Mapped uses are immediately visible on the map display, which also shows the records of all other users displayed in different colors, depending on the type of ES or disservice.

Author/Contact:

Dr Paula Harrison,

Land Use Group,

Centre for Ecology and Hydrology,

Lancaster Environment Centre,

Library Avenue,

Bailrigg,

Lancs,

LA1 4AP

+44 (0) 1524 595858

paulaharrison@ceh.ac.uk

Publication date:

Requirements:

  • The MapNat App only requires an ANDROID (v 4.XX) based smartphone with a GPS device
  • Internet connection is not needed during use, but is required for up- and downloading data as well as refreshing the map display.
  • Some data is already available but additional data can be uploaded.

Advantages:

  • No knowledge on ES or their classification is required
  • It is applicable by citizens and scientists
  • MapNat App is easy to use.

Constraints:

  • Applicable primarily for
  • Mapping ES demand (ES flow), i.e. of a citizen using one or multiple ES, or a scientist reporting the use of ES by the people he or she is observing
  • Cultural services, and a couple of regulating and provisioning services which are considered to be relevant for direct use by citizens, such as using drinking water or fire wood.

Licence:

  • Free, no licence

Development stage:

  • Full, working product
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