TREE IDENTIFICATION PLATES WITH QR CODES: A COMPARISON OF COSTS AND DURABILITY BETWEEN DIFFERENT MATERIALS AND LOCATIONS

Abstract

In recent years, the literature has shown an increase in studies that propose the installation of educational signs, such as those with identification and information about trees, many of which use QR codes to provide access to additional information that would not fit on the sign. However, when developing studies like these, a gap in the literature was identified regarding information such as which materials to use for these signs, their costs and durability, as well as the lack of information about how long these signs remain after installation. With the purpose of providing informative support to future researchers interested in using educational signs for tree identification or other purposes, this study aimed to address the previously identified information gaps. To this end, it presents and compares the results of a systematic monitoring of tree identification signs with QR codes, made from different materials (PVC and ACM) and installed in different locations—public streets, a natural reserve, and a schoolyard—in the municipality of Assis Chateaubriand-PR. The monitoring of the signs showed that ACM 3 mm is significantly more resistant and durable than PVC 2 mm, justifying its higher cost, while the vinyl adhesive used on the signs showed good durability, without fading over 2.5 years of monitoring. It was observed that the number of signs installed in open and unmonitored locations, such as public streets and the conservation unit, was reduced by half in the first months after installation. This loss occurred mainly due to vandalism, theft, maintenance of planting beds, and deterioration of the stakes. These situations also occurred with the signs installed in the schoolyard, but in a considerably smaller number (15% loss in one year), due to the environment being closed, with restricted access and supervision. In addition to the use of more robust materials, such as ACM and vinyl adhesive in the production of the signs, it was demonstrated that the signs remain in place longer when installed in restricted and monitored locations, such as schoolyards. It is concluded that the installation of signs for these purposes provides pedagogical, informational, and environmental benefits; however, it requires constant monitoring and maintenance to ensure greater longevity.