Exploring the Role of ICTs and Communication Flows in the Forest Sector

Abstract

The forestry sector has used technology to improve productivity and increase service quality, reducing labor in many processes. In this sense, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are having broad impacts on the forestry sector, from forestry to the marketing of forest products and the recreational use of forests. There is a wide range of technologies that can be implemented in forestry depending on the needs of each user. The objective of this study was to conduct a literature review in order to analyze the opportunities for improving ICT and communication flows in the forestry sector and to evaluate their applicability. This literature review was analyzed using the Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect databases. An overview of the importance of ICT and communication flows in the forestry sector, ICT tools, and their applications is provided. One-way and two-way communication flows coexist in forestry, integrating different communication channels, time, target audience, and message. It is clear that technologies have produced significant changes in all sectors of the forestry industry. We conclude that ICTs and communication flows contribute to forest conservation and management in the establishment of standards or policies that ensure conservation through monitoring and analysis of landscapes at different temporal and spatial scales.

1. Introduction

ICTs have become a fundamental part of daily life [1]. These are used to obtain, transmit, manipulate, and store data efficiently and safely [2]. For instance, these technologies include hardware and software tools, telecommunications networks, the Internet, and information management systems [3], which have enabled process automation, real-time data analysis, and more informed and accurate decision-making [4]. In this context, the rapid development of ICTs has been driven by the growing need for information in different areas [5]. Particularly, in the forestry sector, ICTs have allowed the improvement of forest management [6] and the optimization of production and marketing processes [7], as well as the monitoring and follow-up of forests and their biodiversity [8]. With this, ICTs have allowed the creation of an information society in which communication flows are fundamental [9,10].

Communication flows refer to the transfer of information between the different components of the system, including hardware, software, networks, and users [11]. These flows allow the transfer of information to occur efficiently and effectively [12], which is essential for the operation of information and communication technology systems and applications [13]. ICT information exchanges can be classified into different types, depending on the direction, purpose, and content of the information transferred [14]. For instance, the main common forms of communication are data, voice, video, text, and file communications [15].

These technologies drive major transformations and have significant potential in forest management around the world [16,17]; likewise, they can also transform the forestry industry and reduce the labor intensity of many processes [18]. Whereas the timber supply chain is highly dependent on the environment and the sustainable management of natural resources is key to its long-term viability [19], the integration of ICTs in the wood supply chain can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and improve the environmental sustainability of this industry [20,21]. In this sense, countries using ICTs in forestry are increasing the competitiveness of forest products and increasing the efficiency of forestry conservation and management functions [22]. Therefore, ICTs can have a significant impact on the development of the forestry industry as an engine of the economy [23,24].

Digital technologies have significant potential in forestry [25] and compose a major asset and transform the forest industry by providing unprecedented solutions that make forests smarter [26]. The need to implement ICTs must become a tool that serves forest users, wood buyers, operators of logging machines, or forest planners [27,28]. In addition, the implementation of ICTs and their innovations have facilitated the tasks of data collection, as well as its processing (greater accuracy and efficiency) [29]. ICTs allow large amounts of information to be processed quickly and efficiently, which can be very useful in forest management and informed decision-making [30]. In addition, they allow the monitoring of forestry operations in real time [31], the design of forest management strategies [25,32], and forest data analysis [33].

In general, data can be classified as input, output, or circumstantial data, and its analysis involves phases such as generation, collection, processing, modeling, and output information [29]. For this purpose, the forestry industry is constantly improving systems that make the most of data and make better decisions [34]. This is accomplished by allowing the information to be analyzed comprehensively in order to obtain illustrative results (geovisualization) [35]. For instance, electronic systems, and in particular Geographic Information Systems (GIS), could be used to improve forest harvesting with the prior planning of the skid trail network in order to minimize utilization impacts and risks for operators while ensuring a high level of productivity at work [34]. Some operators in the forestry sector use ICT to improve forest management results [36,37]; for instance, ICTs can be used in the planning and monitoring of forest management [38], wood production optimization [39], forest health monitoring [40], and improving traceability and transparency of the timber supply chain [41]. Considering these ICTs, efficiency and sustainability in forest management can be improved [42].

Forests provide a wide variety of services and benefits to society [43,44]. Some of the main ecosystem services that forests provide are timber and non-timber forest products, biodiversity, protection against natural disasters, climate regulation, soil and water protection, recreation, pollination, and pest and disease control [45,46]. If there is knowledge about the benefits that forests can offer for public health, actions can be implemented to manage these natural resources properly [47]. This will ensure that forests can continue providing significant long-term benefits [48]. In this manner, to guarantee the flow of forest services, it is necessary to articulate strategies that link human values with sustainability objectives [49], an aspect that is favored for the development of new technologies. ICT has enhanced productivity and reduced production costs in the forest industry and in forestry itself [50]. Data on forest growth and productivity are essential for the planning and implementation of sustainable forest management practices, which can be used within environmental applications [51]. Therefore, it is essential to have accurate and up-to-date data on the growth and productivity of forests in order to make informed decisions about their management and conservation [52].

Currently, there are various tools and technologies that allow the collection and exchange of information to occur more efficiently [53]. The use of the internet, monitoring applications, and sensors and receivers installed in equipment or machines, as well as communication between machines and between humans and machines, are some examples of these tools [54]. Remote sensing can cover a greater geographic context and time scale than other observing techniques [55,56], which can provide a more complete and detailed view of changes that occur on the Earth’s surface over time [57]. For instance, are various applications for the use of ICTs to improve communication flows in the forestry sector, including the use of the following applications: (i) GIS to collect and analyze data on forests and their use [58]; (ii) mobile applications and tracking software to monitor the flow of forest products from the forest to the final consumer [59]; (iii) online platforms to share information on sustainable forest management [60]; (iv) remote monitoring systems, such as satellites and drones, to collect information on the state of forests and their evolution over time [61]; and (v) online communication tools, such as videoconferencing and social networks, to facilitate collaboration and coordination among forest sector actors in different regions and countries [62].

At this moment, there is constant growth and improvement in the implementation of ICTs and communication flows in the forestry sector [34]. There is a growing number of digital tools being developed to improve the management of forest resources and promote communication among the various actors involved [63], such as forest owners, forestry companies, government agencies, and researchers [64]. Therefore, the use of these technologies provides important improvements in forest management such as (i) the improved control of operations, (ii) automation of operations throughout the chain, (iii) improved decision-making based on data and information, (iv) combination of data on tree growth, (v) identification of timber potential, and (vi) identification of environmental conditions to plan future growth models [36,65].

The diffusion of ICTs contributes to different purposes, such as the management and conservation of forests and forest resources [66]. In addition, it can be used for the prevention of illegal logging and forest fires, raising awareness about the importance of sustainable forestry practices, and improving forest governance [67]. In general, ICTs have proven to be a valuable tool for sustainable forest management [68], and their use is expected to continue to grow in the future as new technologies are developed and access to them expands globally [69]. The use of ICTs in forest management is a topic of increasing interest [70], especially in the timber industry [9]. These technologies can enhance the efficiency and sustainability of forest production [71] while simultaneously reducing the environmental impact of this activity [72]. Therefore, it is convenient for an industry to access new technologies for exploration and transformation. Likewise, forestry as a sector should take advantage of communication technologies to be more effective in disseminating information on the benefits of forests and generating awareness.

The scope of this paper was to review information about ICTs and communication flows in the forest sector. The objectives of this study were (i) to synthesize the findings on ICTs in forestry and their applicability and (ii) to develop a systematic review of the state-of-art approaches concerning communication flows.

The document consists of five sections. Section 1 includes a review of existing literature on the topic, the importance of the research, and the relevance of the research. Section 2 details the proposed methodology. The findings are presented in Section 3. In Section 4, the discussion presents and compares the data obtained by other researchers. Finally, our work concludes in Section 5.

2. Materials and Methods

In this research, a systematic review of the literature was carried out in which information in relevant studies was identified, selected, and critically evaluated in reference to the analysis of opportunities for ICT improvement and communication flows in the forestry sector and their applicability. This review was carried out through the application of the PRISMA protocol (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) (Figure 1) [73]. This is a methodology applied to carry out literature reviews [74]. Information searches were carried out using key terms such as ICT and forestry, technological innovation and forestry sector, technology and forest, communication flow and forestry ICT, forestry sector and ICT and communication, information flow and forestry and communication, and ICTs in the forestry industry. Initially, a primary search for information was carried out through Google Scholar https://scholar.google.com/ (accessed on 2 January 2023). This search tool is comprehensive and accessible to identify academic studies and reports [75]. The search for scientific articles was carried out in databases such as Scopus https://www.scopus.com (accessed on 5 January 2023), Web of Science https://www.webofscience.com/ (accessed on 7 January 2023), and ScienceDirect https://www.sciencedirect.com/ (accessed on 10 January 2023). These databases offer advanced search tools that allow for easier and faster discovery of relevant and specific articles, based on the search criteria and keywords used [76]. Parameters such as author (expert in the field), affiliation (institution to which they belong), keywords (facilitating search and classification of information), year of publication (indicating the article’s timeliness and relevance), and citation index were taken into account in the article selection process (reflecting the number of times the article has been cited by other authors).

Nevertheless, while it is recognized that studies published in other languages may contain relevant information, this study considered only scientific papers published in English and Spanish. Given the wide scope of the literature and the large number of results obtained in the search of the database, the inclusion and exclusion criteria were established based on the research topic, type of study, date of publication, language, refereed articles, and citation index. The inclusion and exclusion criteria must be clear and coherent to increase the precision and reliability of the obtained results [77]. After a preliminary review, a total of 173 papers were selected and analyzed for this research.

3. Results

It is important for us to point out some advantages and disadvantages of ICTs in the forestry sector. Several authors, including Adams and Frost [78]; Wallace et al. [79]; Fardusi et al. [80]; Gómez et al. [81]; and Tan et al. [82], indicate that among the advantages of using ICT in the forestry sector are improvements in (i) harvest planning and a reduction in costs of production; (ii) efficiency and precision in forest management; (iii) identification of forest areas at risk of fires and monitoring of forest health through the use of drones and remote sensors; (iv) the efficiency of data collection and analysis, which allows for more informed and faster decision-making; (v) innovation and technology in processes, products, and services. However, there are also disadvantages in the use of these technologies; a study carried out by Kovácsová and Antalová [83] points out, for example, the cost of its implementation and maintenance, the need for trained personnel, and the dependence on electric power and internet connectivity. In this sense, we believe that the implementation of these technologies may require a significant investment in equipment and training for the personnel in charge of their use, but at present, we consider that they are important tools to improve forest management efficiency and productivity.

3.1. ICT and Communication Flows: Definition and Importance in Forest Sector

ICTs cover a wide range of technologies that allow for obtaining, processing, analyzing, and storing information [29]. ICTs function as knowledge networks and also intervene as dissemination mechanisms because they provide effective communication channels [84]. N’dri et al. [85] suggested that the impact of ICTs is more substantial in developing countries than in developed countries; therefore, it is recommended that governments invest in infrastructure and implement ICTs progressively. Consequently, ICTs are an important tool nowadays, as they allow for the efficient acquisition, processing, analysis, and storage of information. By utilizing remote sensing technologies, such as satellite imagery and drones, ICTs enable real-time monitoring of forest cover, biodiversity, and human activities, aiding in the early detection of deforestation and illegal logging. Furthermore, ICTs empower stakeholders to make informed decisions and adopt sustainable practices for the long-term preservation of forests [86,87,88,89,90]. Additionally, they play a significant role in the dissemination of knowledge and communication. This makes them a key tool for economic and social development. Therefore, it is necessary to continue promoting their use and application in various productive sectors.

ICTs can play a key role in the forestry sector and in the sustainable management of forest resources. Figure 2 lists some of the ways in which ICTs can be important in the forestry sector.

Communication involves the transmission of information or ideas from a sender (person or group) to a receiver [62]. To have effective communication in the forestry area it is necessary to (a) understand the human–environment relationship, and link this concept with socioeconomic, cultural, and social aspects [91] and (b) integrate all stakeholders and maintain continuous communication between them [91,92]. Communication has become a key tool for forest management. Therefore, effective communication achieves the sustainable management of forest resources.

Stakeholders are defined as groups of people who have an impact on an organization and/or are influenced by it [91]. They can be classified into the following categories: primary stakeholders (active participants who are influenced directly by the results, such as suppliers, government, and customers) and secondary (do not have direct participation and receive a marginal effect from the situation, such as organizations and civil society in general) [93]. Therefore, primary and secondary stakeholders are important for organizations as their collaboration contributes to sustainability.

If the communication flow is linear, the elements of this process are sender, message, medium, receiver or audience, and effect [94]. Communication can be one-way when the message is delivered directly from the sender to the receiver and is considered two-way when there is interaction between the parties [91]. In the forestry area, both communication flows coexist (Figure 3); each of them integrates different mechanisms (communication channels and form of persuasion), time (short- or long-term), target audience (forest owners, general public, etc.), and message [95]. It is important to mention that if there is effective communication, it is possible to articulate and propose strategies for forest management and establish public policies focused on environmental protection and sustainable management and integrate all stakeholders’ points of view into decision-making [62]. Therefore, communication flows contribute to the sustainable management of forest resources with the participation of stakeholders in forest management.

3.2. ICT Tools and Their Applications

The adaptability of ICTs to all aspects of human life has presented the opportunity to develop diverse tools and applications focused on the forest and environment. Currently, mobile devices have furthered the common use of the internet and Services, making the monitoring of forest resources easier and more comfortable [96]. However, there remains a gap between technology and the timber industry that needs to be bridged by experiments aimed at connecting decision-makers with technology [97]. In this context, we believe that technology has great potential to improve the management and conservation of forests and the environment. However, it is necessary to bridge the gap between technology and the timber industry. Therefore, we consider it necessary to continue developing technological tools and applications for forest management, as well as integrating technology into decision-making in the forest sector.

Thus, the most common ICT tools and their respective applications in the forestry field are detailed below, such as (i) remote sensing; (ii) X-ray scanners; (iii) mobile device sensors; (iv) geographical information systems; (v) big data; (vi) radio frequency identification; (vii) photo-trapping; (viii) techniques related to forest genetics; (ix) DNA metabarcoding; and (x) citizen science.

3.2.1. Remote Sensing

Remote sensing allows for the determination of many parameters related to the forest (productivity and state/biophysical conditions); it is a unique tool that allows a researcher to obtain repeatable observations at different temporal and spatial resolutions [98]. Remote sensing involves the acquisition, processing, and interpretation of data related to the composition of landscapes through the use of radiometric sensors, which can be active or passive [99]. Remote sensing has specific applications in forest management. For example, it enables the acquisition and processing of information about forests and other ecosystems on a large scale. Consequently, we believe that the application of this tool is important in addressing environmental and social challenges related to forest ecosystems.

This tool shows the explicit interrelation between species and habitat, allowing a researcher to characterize a specific environment, indicating changes across time and helping to predict their variations in the future. The remoting sensing application in forest management is useful in almost all cases; however, it is not precise in tele-detection in vertically and horizontally complex forest systems [100]. Therefore, the application of remote sensing could be tailored to the specific characteristics of the forest and used in conjunction with other sampling and monitoring techniques to obtain more accurate and comprehensive information for informed decision-making regarding the sustainable management of forest resources.

The functioning of active sensors is based on the emission of radiation and the subsequent measurement of energy amount and its return time; by comparison, passive sensors measure the amount of energy reflected or emitted from the matter [99]. Passive systems, unlike active systems, are affected by weather conditions [101] and cannot get details below the forest canopy [102].

Table 1. Sensors used in forestry areas (applications).

Type of Sensor	Sensing Method	Data Type	Sensor	Measured Variables	Spatial Scale
PASSIVE	Aerial photography	2D	Photo cameras	Landscape characterization	Local
	Satellite imagery	Multispectral	Landsat TM ETM + SPOT ASTER MODIS	Landscape characterization, meteorological observations, plant productivity and chemistry.	Regional to local
		Hyperspectral	CHRIS HYPERION	Landscape characterization, meteorological observations, plant productivity and chemistry, species composition	Regional to local
		High spatial resolution	RAPID EYE (5 m) IKONOS (<1 m) WORLDVIEW (<1 m)	Identifying individuals of a landscape	Local
		High temporal resolution	SPOT (4–5 DAYS) MODIS (DAILY)	Changes in landscape over time	Global to local
ACTIVE	Airborne LiDAR and radar	Multilevel, high spatial resolution	SLICER LVIS Vertical-looking radar Side-looking radar	Landscape characterization (identifying individuals), crop production	Regional to local
	Harmonic radar	-	-	Tracking individuals, vegetation structure—3D	-
	Terrestrial lasers	High spatial, temporal resolution	Mobile Static	Characteristics of vegetation (Physical and biophysical), identifying individuals	-

presents a list of sensors and their applications in the forestry area.

Remote sensing comprises Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS), while proximal sensing is related to Terrestrial Laser scanning (TLS); both methods differ in terms of spatial resolution and coverage. ALS has a higher spatial coverage and lower resolution; in contrast, TLS has a lower spatial coverage and a higher resolution [56]. Within this framework, remote sensing includes two main methods: ALS and TLS, which differ in terms of spatial resolution and coverage. Based on this, both methods are useful according to the specific needs of the analysis and the conditions of the land surface being evaluated.

According to Coops [98], Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and RADAR have a greater potential for mapping forests in terms of volume and biomass. LiDAR allows the detection of 3D forest canopy [98], so the aspects that can be determined by this tool are canopy cover, height, volume, biomass [98,102], basal area and stem density [102], forest stratification and distribution, and mean diameter [103], as well as ecological applications such as wildlife monitoring [104]. The study carried out by Borz and Proto [105] indicates that in the last decade, LiDAR-based methods have been successfully tested in several forestry-related applications, in particular in forest inventory applications, focusing mainly on data accuracy. Their usefulness for the quantitative assessment of harvested timber has been less investigated. In particular, studies on resource accounting, including the time required for different log scanning options, are still lacking.

Radar systems use electromagnetic energy (to transmit and receive pulses); therefore, to use radar data it is necessary to consider the canopy, the wavelength of the signal, and the angle [106]. Moreover, some remote sensors have a cost, but it is possible to find radar data available for free, as is the case of the Sentinel-1 Satellite (high temporal resolution: 3 to 6 days and spatial resolution: 5 × 20 m/independent of cloud cover) [107]. In essence, radar systems are a valuable tool for remote sensing because they can provide detailed information about the land surface under conditions where other remote sensing techniques may be limited. Therefore, this tool can be useful for forest management, biodiversity conservation, and the sustainable management of natural resources. The cost of some ICTs is becoming more affordable, making them more accessible to a wider audience (

Table 2. Cost of some ICTs [98].

Type of Sensor	Cost
MODIS (Terra modis, aqua modis)	Free
SPOT
Landsat TM
Sentinel-1 (Radar—Europe)
LiDAR	3–5 USD/ha
RADAR	<1 USD/ha
Rapid Eye, digital globe	1–3 USD/ha
CASI, AVRIS, HYPERION	3–5 USD/ha

).

3.2.2. X-ray Scanners

X-ray scanning is a tool used to determine the quality of wood or estimate the amount of wood inside a stem or trunk. Its operation consists of the emission of X-rays which are transmitted towards an object, and as a result of the penetration, X-ray beams are attenuated, generating a digital image of this object [108]. Therefore, X-ray scanning is a useful tool that allows for the detection of internal defects in wood, which is important for identifying areas prone to structural failure or disease propagation.

The most popular devices that are based on X-ray technology are SilviScan, Itrax, and QTRS. These devices are characterized by having a good level of accuracy (approximately 50 µm/pixel); however, the preparation of the samples involves an arduous task [109]. Nowadays, numerous industrial prototypes of X-ray scanning equipment are inappropriate for the wood industry, especially for high moisture content logs [110,111]. However, although there are popular devices using X-ray technology, the development of industrial prototypes of X-ray scanner equipment is important to meet the needs of the timber industry. This will enable the development of more accurate and efficient devices.

X-ray scanners base their functionality on the theories of Radon, theoretically demonstrated in 1970, which indicated projections of the object depending on the number of directions considered [109]. Whatever the number of directions, X-ray beams are sent and detectors measure the X-ray radiation that is transmitted through the object [111]. These studies point to the important role of X-ray scanners for wood quality assessment, tree species identification, determination of wood density, and moisture.

3.2.3. Mobile Devices Sensors

Recently, the use of mobile devices has increased, together with mobile cloud computing, allowing for data collection from various sensors in a short period of time [112]. In mobile devices such as smartphones and watches, there are various sensors that allow for the development of models related to activities that require engines such as logging; other sensors are used to track individual trees and analyze forest productivity [56]. This highlights the important role of mobile devices in enhancing efficiency and precision in decision-making across various fields, including the management and monitoring of forestry activities.

This ICT allows for the realization of in-situ observations, regardless of terrain conditions (easy transport); at the same time, it gathers measurements with an acceptable speed. However, these technologies are still in research and development, so their accuracy is not comparable to other static systems [113]. Even so, they have been a useful tool in forest degradation monitoring, especially in developing countries [114]. In conclusion, the ongoing development and refinement of sensors in mobile devices for forest monitoring could lead to significant advancements in the field of forest management. This is due to their accessibility, efficiency, and ability to collect data in hard-to-reach areas.

3.2.4. Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

GIS, in conjunction with data obtained by remote sensing (satellite images and drones), allow for the mapping of vegetation at different scales. It is also possible to assess risks such as forest fires through a multiple-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) that integrates user approaches (variety of information requirement) [115]. In the same way, GIS have played important roles in forest resource management, wood harvest planning, and forest fire management, among others [116]. Therefore, GIS are tools for the collection, processing, and analysis of spatial data. This facilitates informed and effective decision-making for the management of forest resources and the prevention of forest risks.

ArcGIS 10.5^® software differ by their ability to collect data geometries (such as points, lines, polylines, or polygons) and other attributes, as well as their compatibility with data formats such as ESRI shapefile, CSV, and KML. Currently, many mapping apps were developed for mobile devices, including ArcGIS, Mapit Spatial, Qfield, SW Maps, Global Mapper Mobile, Locus GIS, and others [117]. GIS allow the integration of different data sources to obtain a complete and detailed vision of forest ecosystems. Therefore, GIS influence the planning of sustainable forest management.

3.2.5. Big Data

Big data refers to large data sets whose size exceeds the capacity of typical database software [118,119]. For a better understanding, these characteristics are represented in Figure 4.

In forestry, big data includes information or registers about metrics of trees, species, and volume of wood produced [119]. Additionally, it has demonstrated huge potential in forest management and ecosystem protection [120]. In agriculture, big data is largely employed in developed countries to promote the production and management of numerous products. Therefore, the use of big data in the forestry sector can have a significant impact on the economy, the environment, and society.

3.2.6. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)

RFID identifies objects by means of radio frequency signals that correspond to the following groups: low frequency (between 30 and 300 kHz), high frequency (between 3 and 30 MHz), ultra-high frequency (between 300 and 3000 MHz), and microwaves (between 2 and 30 GHz) [121,122]. Overall, RFID technology is a versatile tool that can be used in the forestry sector to identify and track wood and other forest products along the supply chain. The choice of the appropriate frequency range will depend on the specific needs of the application.

This system includes electronic compounds, such as a microprocessor, a transponder, a reader, and a management system. The main objective of this technology is to get information about objects, animals, or plants; in this context, each microchip could be attached to a tree’s base to register its localization and size, and in case of logging, it can hold the data about who cut it, so that illegal logging can be controlled [122]. Nevertheless, the application of this ICT may have some effects on ecosystems, principally on wildlife [123]. However, the use of radio frequency identification technology must be carefully considered and managed to minimize its impact on ecosystems and maximize its economic and social benefits.

3.2.7. Photo-Trapping

Photo-trapping is a technique used to monitor wildlife in their natural habitat, particularly in forested areas. [124]. This technique involves the installation of cameras in strategic locations within the forest, which are automatically triggered when they detect movement or heat [125]. Furthermore, it is a non-invasive and efficient technique [126]. This allows a researcher to obtain information about forest biodiversity, species distribution, species abundance, their habits and behaviors, and their interaction with the natural environment [125]. Consequently, it provides detailed information for assessing the status of wildlife present in a specific area. Therefore, its use can significantly contribute to the development of strategies for the sustainable management of biodiversity in forest ecosystems.

To carry out photo-trapping, special digital cameras are used that can be configured to automatically take images at different times of the day or night [127]. The cameras can be equipped with motion sensors, heat sensors, or both, to detect the presence of animals in the area [128]. These cameras are typically resistant to field conditions such as rain, sun, and cold temperatures [129]. The images captured by the cameras can be analyzed manually or through the use of specialized software to identify the animal species that appear in the images [130]. In this context, we believe it is important to place the cameras in locations where wildlife activity exists, such as trails, feeding areas, or areas with access to water. Therefore, photo-trapping does not disturb the natural behavior of animals and adheres to ethical protocols for wildlife research and monitoring.

3.2.8. Techniques Related to Forest Genetics

Forest genetics is a branch of forest biology that focuses on the study of genetics and molecular biology of trees and other forest species [131]. Some techniques related to forest genetics include DNA analysis, genetic improvement, cloning, molecular markers, and next-generation sequencing techniques [132]. Forest genetics techniques are important tools in forest management, enabling scientists to study the genetic diversity of forest species, improve wood quality, enhance disease resistance and other important traits, and conserve rare or endangered species [133]. Forest genetics employs various techniques to study the genetic variability of forest populations. Therefore, this tool contributes to sustainable forest management.

In this context, techniques related to forest genetics also have a connection with ICTs, as many of them require specialized equipment and software for their application and data analysis [134]. Some of the ways in which information and communication technology is used in forest genetics include databases, data analysis, simulation models, communication, and dissemination of results [135]. ICTs have allowed forest genetics scientists to gather and analyze large amounts of genetic information, as well as communicate the results in a clearer and more accessible manner to society [132,136,137,138]. In conclusion, forest genetics and ICTs are closely related, allowing for the collection and analysis of large amounts of genetic information, as well as the communication of results in a clearer and more accessible manner to society, which contributes to more efficient management and conservation of forests.

3.2.9. DNA Metabarcoding

DNA metabarcoding is a molecular technique used to identify species and communities of organisms from environmental samples such as soil, water, or air [139]. This technique is based on the sequencing of a specific region of the DNA from the organisms present in the sample, known as barcoding [140]. The obtained DNA sequence is compared to reference sequence databases to identify the corresponding species or taxon [141]. This molecular technique has applications in biodiversity research and monitoring, as well as in the management of forest ecosystems.

DNA metabarcoding has been successfully used in biodiversity studies, ecology, and conservation in various communities of organisms, ranging from plants and animals to microorganisms [142]. Some of the advantages of this technique include the ability to rapidly and accurately identify a wide range of species and taxa, as well as the capability to analyze complex environmental samples containing multiple species [143]. DNA metabarcoding is a technique that offers advantages for species identification and biodiversity analysis, benefiting ecosystem regeneration and species conservation efforts.

DNA metabarcoding is a complex technique that involves several stages: (i) Sample collection; (ii) DNA extraction, which can be done using commercial kits or standardized laboratory protocols; (iii) Amplification of DNA from organisms present in the sample; (iv) Purification of amplified DNA; (v) DNA sequencing; (vi) Data processing using specialized software, which may include filtering, assembly, and taxonomic assignment tools; and (vii) Data analysis to obtain information about the diversity and structure of the organism communities present in the sample, including species richness, relative abundance of each species, and taxonomic composition of the community [144,145,146]. In conclusion, this technique involves multiple stages, from sample collection to data analysis. Furthermore, it has been used in biodiversity, ecology, and conservation studies in various populations. Therefore, it becomes a promising technique to provide valuable information on biodiversity and communities of organisms present in environmental samples.

3.2.10. Citizen Science

Citizen science can be considered an ICT to the extent that it utilizes digital tools to engage people in scientific projects [147]. Technology has allowed citizen science projects to reach higher levels of participation and collaboration and has transformed the way data is collected, analyzed, and shared [148]. The collected data can be stored in online databases and analyzed by participants and scientists using specialized software and data extraction techniques [149]. ICTs have allowed citizen science projects to reach a broader and more diverse audience through online platforms that enable remote participation and online collaboration [150]. Furthermore, ICTs have enabled the communication and dissemination of results from citizen science projects [151]. For instance, social networks and mobile applications have been used to engage people in citizen science projects, enabling real-time communication and the creation of online communities to share information and data [152]. With the continuous advancement of ICTs, it is expected that citizen science will continue to grow and play an important role in scientific research and biodiversity management. In conclusion, ICTs have significantly enhanced the capacity of citizen science projects to store, analyze, and communicate collected data. This has resulted in increased efficiency in scientific research and improved accessibility and understanding of the results by society, which is of great importance in sustainable forest management.

Finally, it is important to mention that regarding the parameters for article selection in this study, the publication period ranged from 2004 to 2023. Similarly, when searching in the title, abstract, or keywords of published scientific articles, the most relevant countries were identified in terms of the origin of authors of works related to ICTs in the forestry sector: the United States, China, Canada, Spain, Finland, and Brazil. The most frequently used keywords in related scientific articles were “ICT and forestry”, “technological innovation and the forestry sector”, “technology and forests”, “communication flow and forestry ICT”, and “ICT in the forestry industry”. It is also important to highlight that among the works with the highest number of citations are research papers related to the keywords “ICT and forestry” and “technology and forest”, with over 3500 citations.

4. Discussion

This study focused on conducting an analysis of the opportunities for improving ICTs and communication flows in the forestry sector and their applicability based on the results reported by various studies and data repositories. Given the above information, Andreopoulou et al. [153] and Sharma et al. [154] mention that the forestry sector is one of the most important in terms of natural resources and sustainability and can significantly result from the implementation of ICTs. In this sense, for instance, CEPAL [155] indicates as one of its priorities support for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in Latin America and the Caribbean, which includes the use of ICTs. Therefore, we believe that ICTs can facilitate the achievement of sustainable development goals related to the management and conservation of forest resources. This fact is supported by a study carried out by Fardusi et al. [80], which mentions that the forestry sector is an area in which various ICT tools and applications have begun to be used to improve forest management and monitoring. A second study by Molinaro and Orzes [71] indicates that these technologies have been used successfully in the management of forestry companies to improve the decision-making, planning, and monitoring of forestry operations. In summary, we believe that the applications and technological tools used in the forestry sector improve the management and sustainability of forest resources by automating business management processes in the forestry sector, reducing costs and typing errors.

In this context, a study carried out by Zhang et al. [156] mentions that ICTs play a key role in the management and monitoring of forest resources, as well as in the optimization of production and marketing processes. A second study by Chen et al. [157] indicates that the use of ICTs in the forestry sector allows for more efficient management of natural resources, improving decision-making and increasing the profitability of forestry companies. For these reasons, we believe that they can be used to improve energy efficiency and digital infrastructure in the forestry sector. This fact is corroborated by a study carried out by Anastasiadou et al. [158] which points out that ICTs can help address the challenges of governance and population participation. In addition, Badiane et al. [159] state that ICTs can also provide opportunities to strengthen the capacities and skills of the forestry sector both in the public and private spheres, which can be especially important in the context of trade opening. In this sense, we believe that ICTs are essential for the forestry sector due to their ability to improve efficiency and productivity in the management of natural resources and are essential for the success and sustainability of the forestry sector in the digital age.

In view of the foregoing, we additionally believe that to further improve the use of ICTs in the forestry sector, new technologies can be implemented. In this sense, for instance, a study carried out by Palander [7] indicates that LIDAR allows for the production of digital terrain models and obtaining detailed information on topography and vegetation. A second study carried out by Galaz et al. [160] indicates that mobile applications can be developed for plantation management and decision-making in the field. A third study by Dainelli et al. [161] mentions that another option is the use of drones for the inspection of forests and early detection of pests or diseases. However, it is also important to consider the communication flows in the forestry sector. For example, a study carried out by Näyhä [162] and Castillo et al. [163] indicates that it is necessary to develop deep and wide-ranging communication strategies in relation to the needs of different stakeholders at different hierarchical levels of sustainability. Therefore, we consider that in the forestry sector, the use of different communication models is not enough to improve the acceptability of operations and competitiveness in the markets. However, they are tools that are necessary for its application.

Indeed, there are multiple ICTs used in the forestry sector to improve the collection, management, and analysis of forest data, as well as to improve supply chain monitoring, forest management, biodiversity conservation, and communication among the various stakeholders involved in the sector. In this context, Rao et al. [164] point out that ICTs can improve the efficiency of forest management and contribute to the protection and conservation of forest resources and biodiversity. Similarly, Sraku [165]; Belden et al. [166]; and Dastres and Soori [40] mention that access to ICTs in the forestry sector depends on telecommunications infrastructure, the level of economic development, public policies and regulations, the level of education and training, and the availability of financing. It is important to address these factors to improve access to ICTs in the forestry sector and harness their full potential for forest management and biodiversity conservation.

In this context, Liu et al. [167] mention that new technologies are being developed in the field of artificial intelligence. These technologies could have a significant influence on forest management [168]. For instance, a study carried out by Grabska et al. [169] mentions that machine learning algorithms can analyze large volumes of forest data and provide valuable information for decision-making. A second study by Singh et al. [170] indicates that artificial intelligence technologies are being created to improve the early detection of forest diseases and pests. However, in communication flows, artificial intelligence can also enhance communication among the various actors involved in forest management [53]. For instance, Kożuch et al. [171] reveal in their study that chatbots and virtual assistant systems can answer common questions about forest management, enabling more effective communication and efficient resource management. In summary, artificial intelligence technologies have a high potential to enhance forest management.

Regarding access to ICTs in the forestry sector, the digital divide is a reality that affects many regions of the world. A study conducted by Lowery et al. [172] states that the application of ICTs in the forestry sector faces specific challenges depending on the region and context in which they are used. These challenges include limitations in satellite coverage, varying levels of information access, diverse climatic conditions, different languages and cultures, varied approaches and priorities in forest management, lack of training and skills, costs, technical challenges, and maintenance issues. A second study by Hossain [173] indicates that in some countries, particularly the poorest and least developed ones, access to ICTs is limited or absent, which can have a negative impact on forest management and biodiversity conservation. Therefore, we believe that the challenges related to ICT access should be addressed, and their use should be integrated into a broader forest management strategy. With this, we believe that it is important to work in collaboration with the actors involved in forest management to ensure that ICTs are accessible, effective, and sustainable.

Although the PRISMA model is a rigorous and systematic methodology for conducting literature reviews, it also has certain limitations that must be considered. Some of the potential limitations of the PRISMA model in this study could be the following: (i) the limited availability of relevant studies in the literature, which could restrict the number of studies included in the review; (ii) the variable quality of the included studies, which could affect the reliability and validity of the review results; (iii) the possibility that some relevant studies have been omitted due to the selection of specific databases or the exclusion of languages other than English or Spanish; and (iv) the possibility that the inclusion and exclusion criteria are not entirely appropriate for the specific topic of the review.

The potential future impact of ICTs and communication flows in the forestry sector is promising, with significant implications for the management of forest resources. Initially, the advancement of ICTs is expected to enable broader automation of forest management processes, resulting in improved efficiency and cost reduction. Additionally, the integration of various technologies utilized in forest management is anticipated to be optimized through the application of ICTs, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of information analysis. In terms of communication flows, ICTs are poised to facilitate increased collaboration and coordination among diverse stakeholders engaged in forest management, including forest owners, forestry companies, government agencies, and civil society members. Consequently, the utilization of ICTs has the potential to enhance the overall management of forest resources.

5. Conclusions

ICTs and communication flows generate a positive impact in the forest sector because they allow for the monitoring and analyzing of landscapes on different temporal and spatial scales, thus contributing to forest management and the establishment of norms or policies that guarantee preservation. In addition, it allows the stakeholders to be linked and establishes effective communication flows between them. Overall, there is a wide range of technologies that can be implemented in the forestry area according to the needs of each user, such as productivity improvements, monitoring, and markets, among others. Furthermore, sustainability is an important aspect of forest management, and ICTs can play a role in promoting sustainability in several ways. For instance, ICTs can be used to monitor forest health and identify areas that are at risk of degradation. This information can then be used to develop and implement management plans that will help to protect forests and their resources. Additionally, ICTs can be used to educate the public about the importance of forests and the need for sustainable forest management. This can help to raise awareness of the issue and encourage people to make choices that support sustainable forest practices.

Finally, the forestry sector can significantly benefit from the implementation of ICTs and communication flows. These technologies can improve the management and sustainability of forest resources by automating business processes, reducing costs, and minimizing errors. They can also facilitate the achievement of sustainable development goals related to the management and conservation of forest resources. However, the implementation of these technologies may require a significant investment in equipment and training for personnel. Furthermore, the use of new technologies such as LIDAR, mobile applications, and drones can further improve the efficiency and productivity of the forestry sector. It is also essential to consider communication flows and develop comprehensive communication strategies to ensure the acceptability of operations and competitiveness in the markets. Despite some disadvantages such as the cost of implementation and maintenance, the use of ICTs and communication flows are essential tools for the success and sustainability of the forestry sector in the digital age.