The Malama Project: Oracle Concept for Hawaii Environmental Data

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

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

[GENERAL] Co-proposers and additional applicants

Wyatt Sharpley

Jesse C. Pearson

Tyler Malin

Paul Apao

Matthew Bowen

Adam Lottig

Ahmad Sawalmeh

Jason Rashidnia

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

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

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

We will create a Cardano-based oracle concept to provide reliable environmental data for Hawaii, enhancing sustainable practices and decision-making.

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

[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.”

Yes, our project will rely on data partnerships with local environmental agencies and satellite data providers to ensure comprehensive and accurate environmental data.

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

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

While we are committed to the open-source ethos and the benefits it provides to the community, certain elements of our project will remain proprietary due to privacy and security considerations. This approach is necessary to protect the sensitive data involved in our service, particularly regarding landowner information that could be vulnerable to misuse if not handled with the highest security standards.

Open Source Components:

• The majority of our software, including the data integration API and the front-end application, will be open-source. These components will be available under the Apache 2.0 License, which allows both commercial use and free modifications. The source code for these components will be hosted publicly on GitHub, ensuring that developers can access, modify, and improve the code.

Proprietary Components:

• Certain middleware components and our security modules, which handle encryption and privacy-preserving functions, will not be open-sourced. These elements are critical for ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of the data processed by our oracle service. By keeping these components proprietary, we safeguard against potential vulnerabilities and protect the privacy of individuals and entities represented in the data.

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Our proposed solution addresses the critical challenge of obtaining reliable and actionable environmental data in Hawaii, a region uniquely impacted by ecological and climatic changes. Recognizing the importance of accurate data for effective environmental management and policy-making, we aim to develop a Cardano-based oracle service that aggregates and verifies environmental data. This service will provide stakeholders with the necessary tools to make informed decisions that positively impact environmental sustainability.

Approach: We chose to start with an API that integrates data from established and reliable sources. This approach allows us to build a robust foundation for data accuracy and security, crucial for the sensitive nature of environmental data. Our step-wise development—from establishing data partnerships to creating a functional prototype—ensures that each phase is manageable and lays the groundwork for scalable future developments.

Engagement: The project will engage with environmental agencies, local government bodies, and the broader Cardano community. By involving these stakeholders from the onset, we ensure the oracle service is not only technically sound but also aligned with the practical needs and regulatory frameworks of environmental data usage.

Impact Demonstration: The impact of our project will be demonstrated through specific metrics such as the increase in accessibility to environmental data, improvements in data reliability, and the adoption rate of our oracle service by local stakeholders. Feedback from these users will further validate the effectiveness of the service.

Uniqueness and Benefits: What sets our solution apart is its commitment to leveraging blockchain technology for environmental sustainability—a key innovation that enhances data integrity and transparency. This project will serve as a model for how blockchain can be utilized in other regions and sectors, promoting Cardano’s capabilities beyond traditional financial applications. The success of this oracle service will demonstrate Cardano's potential in supporting global sustainability efforts, thereby increasing its visibility and adoption.

Our solution is to enhance environmental management practices through better data, aligning with Cardano's vision of making the world work better for all.

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

Our project will significantly enhance the environmental data infrastructure within the Cardano ecosystem, providing a trusted and decentralized source of critical information that supports sustainable practices. This oracle service will not only benefit environmental efforts in Hawaii but also serve as a model for similar initiatives globally.

Impact Measurement: We will quantify the impact by tracking the number of data queries made by stakeholders, the adoption rate of the oracle service by environmental projects, and feedback from users on its effectiveness. Qualitatively, we will gather testimonials and case studies demonstrating the oracle’s role in improving environmental decision-making.

Sharing Outputs: The project's outputs, including data access interfaces and integration guides, will be shared openly with the Cardano community. We plan to host webinars and workshops, publish whitepapers, and actively participate in Cardano forums and conferences to disseminate knowledge and encourage adoption.

[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 is composed of professionals with a deep-seated expertise in blockchain technology, sustainable environmental practices, and digital platform development. This multidisciplinary group ensures that we are uniquely positioned to deliver this project efficiently and effectively.

Technical Expertise: Our team includes seasoned developers proficient in Plutus, Cardano's smart contract platform, and front-end specialists who ensure a seamless integration of blockchain technology with user-friendly digital interfaces. This technical prowess guarantees that we can build, deploy, and maintain the oracle service at scale.

Environmental and Regulatory Insight: With experts in forestry, agriculture, and eco-friendly energy solutions, our team is well-versed in the practical and regulatory aspects of environmental conservation. This expertise is crucial for ensuring that our project aligns with local and international environmental standards.

Validation of Feasibility: To validate our approach, we will implement a pilot phase involving key stakeholders from local communities and governmental bodies. This will allow us to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments to ensure our solution meets real-world demands and compliance requirements.

Financial Management: Our project management includes rigorous financial oversight, where funds are allocated and tracked with precision. We will employ regular financial auditing and provide transparent reporting to all stakeholders, ensuring accountability. Our legal advisors will oversee compliance with all relevant financial and data regulations, further cementing our commitment to trustworthy and responsible project management.

Stakeholder Engagement: Regular updates and active engagement with the Cardano community will be a cornerstone of our project, ensuring that stakeholders are informed and involved in every step of the process.

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

Data Source Identification and Partnership Formation

• Objective: Identify and secure partnerships with data providers.
• Activities:
• Research and list potential data sources relevant to environmental data in Hawaii.
• Negotiate and formalize agreements with at least two primary data providers.
• Expected Completion: Month 1
• Acceptance Criteria: Signed agreements with data providers, with clear terms of data usage and integration.

Development of Data Integration API

• Objective: Develop an initial API to integrate environmental data into a centralized repository.
• Activities:
• Design the API architecture.
• Develop the API with basic functionality to pull data from partnered sources.
• Conduct initial testing to ensure data pulls are functioning as intended.
• Expected Completion: Month 3
• Acceptance Criteria: API is operational and capable of retrieving and centralizing data from all partnered sources.

Prototype Development and Stakeholder Feedback

• Objective: Develop a prototype that utilizes the API to showcase potential data applications.
• Activities:
• Develop a simple front-end application that demonstrates data retrieval and basic analytics.
• Present the prototype to key stakeholders for feedback.
• Expected Completion: Month 5
• Acceptance Criteria: Positive feedback received from stakeholders, with actionable insights identified for further development.

Project Close-out Report and Demonstration Video

• Objective: Finalize the concept phase and document the outcomes.
• Activities:
• Compile a detailed project report outlining findings, stakeholder feedback, and future development directions.
• Produce a demonstration video highlighting the project’s progress and potential.
• Expected Completion: Month 6
• Acceptance Criteria: Comprehensive report and video that clearly communicate the project’s achievements and next steps.

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

Jesse C. Pearson & Jeffrey Wise - Co-Project Leads

Jesse and Jeffrey will oversee the entire Malama Project, focusing on strategic planning and the integration of sustainable technologies and practices.

Wyatt Sharpley & Jason Rashidnia - Marketing Directors

Wyatt and Jason are responsible for the global marketing strategy and outreach, promoting the Malama Project’s objectives and engaging international audiences to foster widespread adoption.

Dominick Garey - Plutus/Cardano Developer

Dominick will handle all blockchain-related developments, focusing specifically on integrating and optimizing Cardano blockchain technologies for the project's operations.

Derrick Oatway - Front-End/Middleware Specialist

Derrick will manage the development of digital interfaces and middleware for the Malama Project, ensuring a seamless user experience across our web and mobile platforms.

Adam Lottig - Forestry/Agriculture Expert

Adam will provide guidance on sustainable land management practices within the project, drawing from his extensive knowledge in forestry and Hawaii agriculture to enhance the environmental impact of the Malama Token.

Paul Apao- Eco-Friendly Farming Expert / Hawaii Land Owner

Paul will contribute his expertise in eco-friendly farming techniques, demonstrating sustainable agricultural practices that can be integrated within land management strategies involved in the Malama Project.

Matthew Bowen & Tyler Malin - Legal Advisors

Matthew and Tyler will ensure that the Malama Project adheres to legal standards and manage any regulatory issues that arise, particularly those involving environmental law and blockchain technology.

Ahmad JP - Solar and Eco-Friendly Energy Expert

Ahmad will lead the efforts on integrating solar and other eco-friendly energy solutions within the project, enhancing its sustainability focus and demonstrating practical energy applications in environmental conservation.

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

Data Source Identification and Partnership Formation

• Data Partnership Establishment: ₳15,000
• Activities: Research, negotiation, and formalization of agreements with data providers.
• Costs include: Legal fees for contract development, and time spent by team members in negotiation and setup.

Development of Data Integration API

• API Development and Testing: ₳30,000
• Activities: Designing and developing the API, initial testing.
• Costs include: Developer salaries, costs associated with accessing third-party APIs for integration testing (if applicable).

Prototype Development and Stakeholder Feedback

• Prototype Development: ₳20,000
• Activities: Development of a front-end application, stakeholder presentations.
• Costs include: Developer time for front-end application, materials and logistics for stakeholder presentations.

Final Milestone: Project Close-out Report and Demonstration Video

• Documentation and Reporting: ₳10,000
• Activities: Compilation of project reports, production of a demonstration video.
• Costs include: Professional services for video production and report compilation.

Project Management and Oversight: ₳10,000

• Across all milestones: Coordination, scheduling, and overall project management.
• Costs include: Project manager salary.

Community Engagement and Marketing: ₳10,000

• Activities: Publicity, community outreach, marketing the project to broader audiences.
• Costs include: Marketing materials, community workshops, online engagement activities.

Miscellaneous and Contingency: ₳5,000

• To cover: Unexpected costs or overruns, additional resources needed for unforeseen circumstances.

Total Requested Funding: ₳100,000

Additional Funding Sources

If additional funding is needed beyond what is requested, we will explore:

• Private Investments: Engage with private investors interested in sustainability and blockchain technology.
• Grants and Sponsorships: Apply for relevant grants and seek sponsorship from environmental organizations.

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

The cost of our project is calculated to ensure maximum efficiency and impact within the Cardano ecosystem. We've benchmarked our budget against typical industry rates for blockchain development, legal compliance, data acquisition, and community engagement activities. For instance, the development costs reflect the going rates for experienced Cardano developers, and our outreach and engagement budgets are aligned with standard costs for similar activities in the tech sector.

The Malama Project contains substantial value for money by delivering a scalable, open-source oracle service that enhances data accessibility and decision-making across multiple sectors within Hawaii and potentially other regions. The open-source nature of the project ensures that the Cardano community can further develop, customize, and build upon our initial work, multiplying the return on investment over time.

Our commitment to transparency and regular community updates will ensure that the funds are utilized effectively, adhering strictly to the project's milestones and objectives. By aligning our costs with clear, measurable outcomes, we demonstrate our commitment to providing real, tangible value to the Cardano ecosystem.