I’m not much of a hiking person, but I plan to change that. Big time. And I want to combine spending more time outdoors with travelling across the country next year. Searching here and there about the national parks, I came upon an interesting topic. Basically, how technology is used to make us connect with nature in a better way. Specifically, I read about how national parks use technology to improve visitors’ experiences (SOURCE)
For example, at Joshua Tree National Park, rangers supply crucial, up-to-date details about park conditions on the National Park Service app.
Grand Canyon National Park installed Trail Alert QR Codes at certain trailheads in 2023—scanning the codes directs visitors to the latest updates on major routes such as Bright Angel and South Kaibab, keeping hikers more informed as they make plans.
Or to serve nature in a more efficient way
The interconnectivity offered by the Internet of Things, or IoT, also presents an unparalleled opportunity for integrating technology with the natural world. Vince Davis, creator of the blog Parks With Vince, suggests IoT technology could be used to determine efficient watering schedules that minimize human intervention or efficient waste management, so waste bins can alert staff when they’re full rather than needing constant monitoring.
There’s a lot of potential in focusing more on technology working for nature. Not necessarily for us in nature. But okay, both of these areas are developing, and I honestly think each is good in its own way.
Any thoughts or examples from the national parks you visited that you’d like to share?