Forest restoration is a long and labor-intensive process that requires a high level of organization. While most of the work happens on the ground, digital tools are equally important. Transparency of tasks, progress visualization, convenient ways to contribute, and targeted efforts all make the process more efficient, engage more people, and help maintain motivation.
On July 22, we began developing Reforest United – a comprehensive software solution. The first step was creating a 3D map of Cyprus that highlights: active wildfire hotspots; burned areas in need of restoration; abandoned lands suitable for planting; and zones where reforestation efforts are already underway.
Reforest United
Each area is linked to an information card with details about sponsors, volunteers, and past and upcoming reforestation events.
The donation system is designed to be transparent and flexible. Not only major sponsors, but anyone can support specific areas. For example, residents of affected villages can directly contribute to restoring forests in their own communities.
Advanced visualization will allow users to see how landscapes evolve with and without support. Using computer graphics, one can “fast-forward” in time and watch trees grow as a result of contributions. Satellite imagery from different periods will also be available for progress comparison.
Volunteers will be able to subscribe to event notifications to join reforestation activities. Every contribution earns points, and leaderboards will showcase the most active sponsors, volunteers, and influencers.
The app will also include a notification system: users can set their location and receive wildfire alerts based not only on distance but also on the direction of fire spread.
By documenting every reforestation effort, we can analyze the effectiveness of different approaches. This will not only enhance practical results but also provide valuable scientific insights and preserve accumulated knowledge.
Our software will help all forest restoration organizations that want to join us. We are already supported by Null Project, ECOmbare, You Reforest Cyprus and we are currently in negotiations with the rest.
The Demo Version
Today, one month after the start of development of Reforest United, we are presenting the demo version of our interactive map. Its purpose is to clearly demonstrate our vision to potential sponsors. We hope the project will gain support so we can unlock its full potential.
The current version features a map of our island based on real satellite imagery and elevation data. Users can select points of interest — cities, active restoration sites, wildfires, and burned areas. Notably, the map vividly illustrates the devastating scale of the July 23 fire, which destroyed around 120 km².
Two areas can be explored in more detail. The first is Null Forest — a piece of land Null Project owns where reforestation has already begun. The second is the villages of Souni and Zanatzia, which suffered the most from the July 23 fire. For demonstration, two restoration plots are highlighted there, managed by local residents. Each plot includes a timeline of events with descriptions, dates, sponsors, volunteers, and links to more detailed articles.
In rare cases, Reforest United may not launch in a mobile phone browser. In the near future, we will release the map as a mobile app so that it will be available for download through the App Store and Google Play.
The Fundraising Campaign
With the release of this demo version, we are officially launching our fundraising campaign. To create the first fully functional version — capable of delivering real benefits — we need your support. If you share our vision and would like to contribute, we would be glad to discuss opportunities for collaboration.
