Smartphones Recycled Into Devices That Detect Deforestation

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Image: Rainforest Connection

By Katie Nelson2014-06-26 22:48:29 -0400

Rainforests are full of exotic animals and plants. But one group is using technology to keep a check on particularly dangerous creatures — humans.

San Francisco startup Rainforest Connection is recycling old smartphones into devices that detect deforestation and alert authorities to illegal logging activity or poaching.

Hidden in trees, the solar-powered devices are programmed to pick up destructive sounds, such as chainsaws or alarmed animals, according to the company's Kickstarter page. An alert is then sent via text message to local authorities, who can then respond immediately. Also, anyone who downloads the Rainforest Connection app can listen live to the sounds of the Sumatra rainforest.

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Topher White, founder of Rainforest Connection, became passionate about stopping illegal deforestation when he stumbled upon it. White's goal for the project is to provide the necessary tools to the people already actively working toward rainforest preservation. Indigenous tribes living in the rainforests are a vital part of the effort, White said.

"Our local partners are the most important step," White told Mashable. "It's really about who gets the alerts and who shows up in time."

Current anti-deforestation efforts are aided mainly by satellites, which do not provide live updates. This means responders are often too late to stop environmental crimes before they happen. But Rainforest Connection's device can detect exact locations and times, instantly providing information on which areas of the forest are in danger.

The company's effort to raise funds is backed by singer Neil Young, who appears in a video on Rainforest Connection's Kickstarter page. Check it out:

The company also addressed concerns over whether poachers would be able to find and disable the devices, saying they are well-camouflaged and programmed to send a text message alerting responders if they are moved after installation.

So far, Rainforest Connection has raised $12,253 of its $100,000 goal, with 33 days left in its campaign. The devices are expected to be installed for a trial run in African rainforests, covering a total of 200 to 300 kilometers of forest with 30 devices.

The startup has not stated a timeline for the installations to begin. If more funds are raised, Rainforest Connection says it hopes to expand into Asia and Latin America.

"We can build one of those devices in about five weeks," White said. "If we get funded, we will be out there before the end of the summer."

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Topics: Mobile, Tech, World