Technology-driven biodiversity conservation
Human activity has caused dangerous decline in nature. According to the United Nations, one million plant and animal species are now threatened with extinction, many within decades.
The Philippines, one of the world’s 18 megadiverse countries, is home to two-thirds of the Earth’s biodiversity, with over 50,000 plant species, 3,000 of which are endemic to the country, and over 100,000 animal species, including over 500 endemic species.
The UN Development Programme (UNDP) is concerned that only 37.47 percent of the country’s Key Biodiversity Areas are protected by law. While there is a roadmap to increase the protection coverage of the country’s terrestrial and coastal areas, collaborative action will be crucial to ensuring its success.
At the Build Initiative, it is our aim to utilize both the power of collaboration and technology to protect our natural resources.
For instance, wildlife monitoring and protection will be done by utilizing drones and Ai-powered camera traps, which will enable us to track movements, detect poachers, and gather data essential for conservation strategies. This technology-driven approach allows for non-invasive monitoring and offers real-time insights that can lead to more effective protection measures.
Satellite imaging and GIS technology are used to monitor deforestation and forest degradation. This program enables us to identify vulnerable areas, assess the impact of conservation efforts, and coordinate reforestation projects. By analyzing changes in forest cover, we can take swift action to protect these critical ecosystems.
By leveraging underwater robotics and 3D printing technology, we work on restoring damaged coral reefs. Robotics are used for precise mapping and monitoring of reef health, while 3D printing creates artificial reef structures that promote coral growth and provide habitats for marine life, aiding in the recovery of these vital ecosystems.
Also part of our efforts is empowering local communities with mobile technology and apps to engage them in environmental monitoring efforts. Citizens can report environmental concerns, participate in data collection, and monitor the health of their surroundings, fostering a collective approach to conservation.
To minimize the environmental impact of conservation activities, we implement clean energy solutions, such as solar-powered systems, in remote conservation areas. This reduces reliance on fossil fuels and ensures that conservation efforts are sustainable and have a minimal ecological footprint.
Moreover, we aim to educate and raise awareness through Virtual Reality (VR). Using this technology, we create immersive experiences that educate the public about the importance of conservation. These virtual tours of natural habitats and endangered species highlight the beauty of the Philippines’ ecosystems and the urgent need for their protection, inspiring action and support for conservation efforts.
In order to do all of this, we need to build partnerships. We hope to collaborate with tech enthusiasts who have a passion for the environment, or a conservationist interested in applying technology in their work, or someone who cares deeply about the future of our planet.
Technology-driven conservation represents a groundbreaking approach to environmental protection, combining scientific research, community involvement, and innovative tech solutions to address critical conservation challenges. By harnessing the power of technology, we aim to safeguard our ecosystems, endangered species, and natural resources for future generations.