A Recent Systematic Review on Prevention for Illegal Logging with IoT: Sensor Design, Application, and Management

Abstract

This study aims to critically review the literature of the assessment of the use of the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain technology in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) in detecting and monitoring illegal logging activities. The research methodology used in this study was based on the systematic review process, which assisted the researchers in identifying materials relevant to IoT, blockchain technology, and wireless sensor networks (WSNs), as well as summarizing and synthesizing the important elements contained therein. The researchers searched three major online scientific databases, Scopus, IEEE Explorer, and Mendeley, for relevant articles published between 2020 and 2023. The search generated 79 articles when precise search keywords and filters were used. They were then screened again using various inclusion and exclusion criteria such as article titles, languages, and important text, were carefully scrutinized to confirm that the inclusion criteria were satisfied and that the articles were appropriate for the current study’s research objectives yielding 25 publications deemed relevant to the study's objectives.  Thematic analysis of the articles helped identify three major themes in sensor design, application and management. Overall, this study contributes to raising various issues about illicit logging and encroachment, seeking for a comprehensive solution that involves technological developments, legislative improvements, and an understanding of their combined effect.