Global Fossil Regulation System
Main contact
Portals
-
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Project scope
Categories
Databases Law and policy Product management Software development TranslationSkills
regulatory compliance operations researchThis project aims to create a comprehensive system that provides clear and accessible information about the laws and regulations surrounding fossils globally. The system will be a valuable tool for fossil collectors, businesses, researchers, and enthusiasts, enabling them to navigate complex legal frameworks related to fossil acquisition, ownership, and transportation.
Impact
This project will provide a much-needed resource for fossil stakeholders, ensuring legal compliance, promoting sustainable practices, and fostering transparency in the global fossil trade. It will also offer students practical experience in research, database development, and user-centric design.
Key Skills
Research and data analysis
Database design and management
Web or app development
Legal and regulatory compliance understanding
UX/UI design
This project offers students the opportunity to tackle a real-world challenge while contributing to the global fossil industry in a meaningful way.
Objectives
1. Fossil Legislation Database:
Compile and organize information on the legal status of specific fossils in various countries.
Identify whether fossils can be legally collected, sold, or exported from their location of origin.
2. Shipping Guidelines:
Detail the legal requirements for shipping fossils to specific locations, including customs regulations, permits, and restrictions.
Highlight necessary documentation, such as export permits and certificates of origin.
3. Acquisition Procedures:
Outline the steps required to legally obtain fossils in their location of origin, including necessary permits, licenses, or permissions.
Include local guidelines for fossil collection and excavation.
4. User Accessibility:
Design a user-friendly system that allows individuals to search by fossil type, destination country, or point of origin.
Use plain language to ensure accessibility for users without legal or paleontological expertise.
5. Dynamic and Up-to-Date Content:
Collaborate with legal experts, paleontologists, and regulatory bodies to source accurate and reliable data.
Establish a process for regular updates to reflect changes in laws and international trade agreements.
Deliverables
1. A functional prototype of the system with key features, including search capabilities and a database of laws and regulations.
2. Documentation of the research process, data sources, and system design.
3. A report with recommendations for system scalability and implementation.
Providing specialized knowledge in the project subject area, with industry context.
Sharing knowledge in specific technical skills, techniques, methodologies required for the project.
Direct involvement in project tasks, offering guidance, and demonstrating techniques.
Providing access to necessary tools, software, and resources required for project completion.
Scheduled check-ins to discuss progress, address challenges, and provide feedback.
Supported causes
The global challenges this project addresses, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Learn more about all 17 SDGs here.
About the company
Lucentara
Science | Technology | Innovation
Lucentara is a Canadian science and innovation company dedicated to advancing the study and application of ammolite and other natural materials. Founded by Caitlin Furby and Mark Turner, Lucentara operates at the intersection of geology, materials science, and design — exploring how nature’s rarest formations can inspire modern advancements in technology and sustainability.
Through ongoing research partnerships and applied experimentation, Lucentara develops cutting-edge methods for fossil preservation, laser restoration, and structural color analysis. Every discovery contributes to the deeper understanding of ammolite’s optical and geological properties, positioning Lucentara as a pioneer in natural photonics and gemstone science.
Lucentara represents the future of Canadian innovation — where art, science, and nature converge.
Dinosty Fossils
Mining | Restoration | Heritage
Dinosty Fossils is the foundation of Alberta’s ammolite industry — a mining and restoration company co-founded by Mark Turner and Caitlin Furby, specializing in the ethical extraction and preparation of ammonite fossils and gem-grade ammolite from the Bearpaw Formation.
Operating across more than 1,200 hectares of mineable land in Southern Alberta, Dinosty Fossils combines traditional field expertise with modern restoration technology to bring prehistoric treasures back to life. Every specimen is meticulously excavated, stabilized, and restored by hand, honoring both its geological origin and its natural artistry.
Through Dinosty Fossils, Furby and Turner have built one of Canada’s most respected fossil operations — supplying collectors, museums, and jewelers worldwide while preserving the integrity and story of each discovery.
Main contact
Portals
-
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada