Hexagon AB’s subsidiary R-evolution has launched its first missions using advanced airborne LiDAR and imagery technology. This initiative marks a major step in the Hexagon Green Cubes program, designed to support environmental restoration and monitoring in the extractive industry.
Green Cubes Digital Twin Transforms Environmental Monitoring
To begin with, Green Cubes introduces a powerful digital twin system that captures the complexity of natural ecosystems. It integrates multiple technologies, including satellite data, airborne and terrestrial LiDAR, camera traps, acoustic sensors, and ground-penetrating radar.
As a result, the platform delivers a fully integrated 3D environmental monitoring solution. Moreover, the AI-powered interface provides what the company describes as a “digital window” into forest ecosystems.
Airborne LiDAR Missions Enhance Precision Mapping
The latest missions use hybrid airborne systems developed by Leica Geosystems, which simultaneously capture high-resolution imagery and LiDAR data.
Consequently, the flights will map over 20 square kilometers of land surrounding mining sites and protected areas. In addition, the system generates dense point clouds exceeding 40 points per square meter, enabling highly detailed 3D models.
Therefore, mining operators gain precise insights into vegetation structure, from large trees down to ground-level plant life.
Supporting Mining Sustainability and Biodiversity Goals
Importantly, these digital twins play a critical role in improving sustainability practices. They allow companies to monitor biodiversity, assess land rehabilitation progress, and enhance environmental compliance.
Furthermore, the data opens new opportunities for community engagement and environmental education. By offering transparent and measurable insights, the technology strengthens trust between mining companies and stakeholders.
As noted by Erik Josefsson, President of R-evolution, the platform helps embed environmental responsibility throughout the mining lifecycle.
Vale Deploys Green Cubes in Brazil
One of the early adopters, Vale, is already using Green Cubes at its Mina de Águas Claras site near Belo Horizonte.
This 1,908-hectare former mine is currently undergoing restoration. Notably, early monitoring has already identified key wildlife activity, including sightings of Puma concolor and maned wolves, along with 146 bird species in just 90 days.
With the new LiDAR missions, the entire 20 km² site will be mapped in high-resolution 3D, further improving environmental tracking.
Gamification and Education Through Minecraft Integration
Interestingly, Green Cubes also extends into digital engagement. The platform has been integrated into the Minecraft environment to promote awareness among younger audiences.
By recreating mining sites in the game, users can explore ecosystems, learn about biodiversity, and understand land restoration efforts. In early testing, over 14,000 players interacted with a virtual version of the site.
Expanding Adoption Across the Mining Sector
In addition to Vale, Samarco has also adopted the Green Cubes solution at multiple sites, with plans for further expansion.
Looking ahead, the Hexagon Green Cubes initiative is expected to scale across more regions and applications, reinforcing the role of digital twins in sustainable mining.
