Synthesized answer
The provided passages do not contain information about the practical implications of Alexander von Humboldt's work [1]. Therefore, I cannot answer your question.
Synthesized from the book passages below. Chat with the book on Feynman for follow-up.
From the book
Title: Kosmos, Entwurf einer physischen Weltbeschreibung, von Alexander von Humboldt by Alexander von Humboldt