EcoMandala: Hexagonal NFTs for Geospatial Data Integrity on Cardano

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Yosef Akhtman

[GENERAL] Are you delivering this project as an individual or as an entity (whether formally incorporated or not)

Entity (Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Requested funds in ada

100000

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

6

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language

No

[GENERAL] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

EcoMandala will leverage Cardano based NFTs (using NMKR) to structure and secure geospatial data, ensuring integrity and reliable access for multiple applications.

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

No

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

No dependancies

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

Yes

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

All outputs of the project will be fully open sourced. Restrictions will apply only to the background IP, namely the satellite imaging processing models.

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

EcoMandala is set to revolutionize the accessibility and reliability of environmental data through a sophisticated computer system and API that organizes environmental data into hexagonal units based on the Uber H3 grid. This innovative system will ingest and serve a comprehensive suite of environmental data, including radiometrically calibrated, cloud-free multispectral satellite imaging at a 1m/px spatial resolution, alongside vital climate data such as temperature, precipitation, and cloud cover, spanning both short-term and long-term cycles.

Our approach involves structuring data into two distinct cycles: a 12-month time series with a 5-day revisit rate for short-term monitoring, and a 12-year time series with a 60-day revisit rate for long-term environmental trends. This data organization enables precise tracking of environmental conditions across various geographical areas and timeframes, providing a rich, detailed environmental narrative for each hexagonal unit.

To further enhance the utility and engagement with this data, EcoMandala will generate dynamic Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) for each hexagonal unit using NMKR studio. These NFTs act as digital passports, encapsulating the unique ecological state and historical data of each location. They serve not only as a tool for engagement but also potentially support conservation efforts through NFT sales.

The entire system is fortified by the security and transparency of blockchain technology, specifically leveraging the Cardano blockchain for data storage and access. This ensures that the platform remains tamper-proof and reliable, which is essential for applications such as Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV). Our standardized API will provide streamlined and simplified access to this data, supporting a plethora of applications in environmental monitoring, conservation, and research.

Ecomandala NFT can act as a visual representation of a unique ecological fingerprint for every single plot of land and agricultural field around the globe.

Overall, EcoMandala will act as an Environmental Passport for any targeted plot of land, recording all changes of status and providing a reliable source of objective data for analyzing dynamics, performance, and health indicators. This solution will empower developers of environmental DApps and support sustainability-focused applications, including those in regenerative agriculture, supply chains, and forest conservation.

[IMPACT] Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community

EcoMandala’s use of the Cardano blockchain to manage geospatial data introduces a new perspective on the potential applications of blockchain technology, extending beyond its traditional financial use cases. By employing Cardano-based NFTs to ensure data integrity, our project offers a valuable example for other developers and entities in the ecosystem exploring solutions to complex data verification challenges.

In access of 230 million H3-L8 EcoMandala NFTs may be minted for the entire land surface of the Earth. In this project we aim at minting a sample of 1,000 EcoMandala NFTs for a single country with agricultural and environmental significance. The NFTs will be dynamically updated creating more on chain activity. This is intended to validate and demonstrate the MandalaNFT concept while generating a substantial traction for Cardano-based NFTs.

This project could help showcase Cardano’s ability to handle intricate data structures, suggesting its utility for a variety of sectors that require dependable data management, such as environmental monitoring and urban planning. Such demonstrations could encourage more developers, businesses, and researchers to consider Cardano for their blockchain needs, particularly for applications involving geospatial data.

Additionally, EcoMandala plans to engage the Cardano community by releasing open-source tools and APIs, which will facilitate the integration of geospatial data into blockchain projects. We hope this contribution will promote further innovation within the community, inspire the development of sustainability-focused dApps, and expand the network of users interacting with the Cardano ecosystem.

This is a new and innovative model on the blockchain that could attract many developers and DApps looking for the information provided by this solution to enable their scale.

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

Our team consists of seasoned professionals in blockchain technology, data analytics, and project management, each bringing a proven track record of successfully handling complex technology projects. This wealth of experience underpins our capability to efficiently execute and deliver the EcoMandala project. We utilize agile methodologies, allowing us to adapt flexibly and responsively as project demands evolve, ensuring that we meet our milestones effectively.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of our approach. By continuously interacting with the Cardano community and soliciting feedback, we refine our strategies and adapt our solutions to meet practical needs. This ongoing dialogue helps ensure that our project aligns with both user expectations and ecosystem requirements, enhancing the project’s relevance and effectiveness.

Furthermore, our financial practices are characterized by transparency. We are committed to carefully documenting and justifying all expenditures to ensure that every aspect of funding is directly aligned with project goals. We strive to maintain clear and open communication about our financial management, which is crucial for maintaining stakeholder trust and ensuring accountability.

Our team’s extensive expertise, combined with a flexible project management approach and a strong commitment to community and financial transparency, equips us to successfully deliver the EcoMandala project and contribute positively to the Cardano ecosystem.

[PROJECT MILESTONES] What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?

Design and Planning (4 - 6 weeks)

Develop a detailed plan and design for organizing and integrating environmental data using hexagonal units based on the Uber H3 grid methodology, and establish how data will interact with blockchain technology.

Outputs: A comprehensive project plan and design document outlining the data structure, blockchain interaction, and preliminary designs for the API and user interface.

Acceptance Criteria:

Identify the optimum geography for the system implementation and deployment.

Completion of a detailed system design that meets project specifications and technical requirements.

Approval of project plans and designs by all key stakeholders.

Evidence:

A link to a PDF containing project plan and architecture

Implementing the On-Chain Data Representation using NMKR ( 6 - 8 weeks)

Develop and deploy the blockchain component of the project, utilizing NMKR to manage and represent environmental data securely on the blockchain.

Outputs: A user guide demonstrating the capability to mint NFTs representing the geospatial hexagonal units

Acceptance Criteria:

Ability to mint and represent each geospatial hexagonal unit on-chain

Evidence:

A pdf with user guide

Implement the Off-Chain API (6 - 8 weeks)

Develop and test an off-chain API that allows users to access and interact with the stored data on the blockchain, ensuring smooth and secure data transactions.

Outputs: Concept implementation of API that facilitates efficient interaction with blockchain-stored data, complete with comprehensive documentation.

Acceptance Criteria:

Access API is developed with clear documentation and endpoints for querying environmental data.

Evidence:

Concept API documentation that can be used by developers and end-users.

Logs from API testing sessions 

Integration Testing (4 weeks)

Conduct thorough integration testing to ensure that all system components, including on-chain data handling via NMKR and the off-chain API, work seamlessly together.

Outputs: Test results that verify the system's overall functionality, performance, and security.

Acceptance Criteria:

Successful integration of on-chain and off-chain components without critical issues.

All system functionalities perform as expected under test conditions.

Evidence:

Detailed test plans and reports documenting the test cases, procedures, results, and any issues identified and resolved.

Closeout Report and Video (4 weeks)

Compile a detailed project closeout report and produce a video that demonstrates the project’s functionality and highlights its benefits and potential impact on the Cardano ecosystem.

Outputs: A final report and a video showcasing the project's capabilities and achievements.

Acceptance Criteria:

project closeout report & video as per https://docs.projectcatalyst.io/fund-documentation/fund10-docs/funded-project-reporting-guideline/project-closeout-report-and-project-closeout-video-pcr-and-pcv

Evidence:

A link to the closeout report

A link to closeout video

[RESOURCES] Who is in the project team and what are their roles?

Yosef Akhtman - Earth Observation Technology Lead: Yosef is a technologist and founder with deep expertise in Remote Sensing, Environmental Monitoring, Geo-Information Systems, and Machine Learning. He founded Gamma Earth in 2020, focusing on developing advanced Earth Observation technologies for environmental monitoring and precision farming. He also founded and led Gamaya, a Swiss startup in precision agriculture.

Linkedin profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akhtman/

Shay Gammer - Project Lead/Manager: Shay is a seasoned professional with a rich background in computer science and finance, adept at leveraging blockchain technologies to drive innovation. Responsible for overseeing the project, coordinating efforts, managing resources, and ensuring the project's overall success.

Linkedin profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shay-gammer-8046966/

Use NMKR Studio and collaborate with NMKR on minting of NFTs

[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

1_Data Ingestion and Organization:

• Algorithm and Visualization Methodology Development: ₳20,000
• Satellite Imaging Data Subscription: ₳10,000

2_Blockchain Integration and NFT Generation:

• Software Development: ₳15,000
• Blockchain Transaction Fees: ₳5,000

3_API Development and Testing:

• Software Development: ₳20,000
• Testing Environment: ₳5,000

4_Final Project Completion Report and Video:

• Technical Writer (for report): ₳5,000

5_Publicity / Marketing / Promotion / Community Engagement:

• Ecosystem Engagement and engagement analysis: ₳5,000

6_Project Management:

• Project Manager Salary (10% of total project cost): ₳10,000

7_Documentation and Reporting:

• Documentation Tools and Services: ₳2,000
• Video and Reporting Back to the Community: ₳3,000

Total Project Cost: ₳100,000

Distribution per Milestone -

Design and Planning ~ ₳15,000

Implementing the On-Chain Data Representation using NMKR ~ ₳20,000

Implement the Off-Chain API ~ ₳30,000

Integration Testing ~₳20,000

Final Milestone ~₳15,000

[VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

The project's budget is structured to maximize value for the Cardano ecosystem, underpinned by a commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement.

We allocate significant resources towards engaging skilled professionals and procuring high-quality services, ensuring that the project is developed with a high standard of precision. Expertise in software development, blockchain integration, and meticulous documentation is crucial for delivering a technically robust and user-friendly platform.

Our investment extends to subscribing to cutting-edge satellite imaging services and covering blockchain transaction fees, which are essential for fostering innovation within the project. These investments not only allow us to utilize advanced technologies but also enable us to create dynamic NFTs and other tangible assets that enhance the utility and value of the Cardano ecosystem.

Moreover, we dedicate funds to community engagement, and comprehensive documentation. These efforts are designed to ensure active community participation, raise awareness of the project, and attract both users and contributors. By effectively disseminating outcomes and facilitating easy access to project benefits, we reinforce the project's impact within the community.

Costs are carefully justified with reference to industry standards and market rates, ensuring that each expenditure is reasonable and necessary. For instance, the salaries for project management and technical writing align with industry averages, while the costs associated with software development and satellite imaging reflect typical freelance rates and service fees.

Overall, by delivering high-quality and innovative solutions, actively engaging the community, and justifying costs based on industry standards, the project not only represents a prudent investment but also promises to deliver substantial long-term benefits. This strategic approach is expected to significantly contribute to the growth and development of the Cardano ecosystem.