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Writer's pictureMamta Devi

International Conservation Tech in India


Written By: Jagriti Shahi 


India, known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems, faces significant conservation challenges. From the Himalayan mountains to the Sundarbans mangroves, the country’s diverse habitats are under constant threat from human activities, climate change, and habitat destruction. To address these pressing issues, international conservation technology has emerged as a crucial player in India's environmental conservation efforts. By leveraging advanced technologies, innovative strategies, and international collaborations, India is making strides in preserving its natural heritage.


Figure: Growth of Conservation Tech Investment 2017 - 2023


The Role of Technology in Conservation


Technology has revolutionized conservation practices worldwide, offering new tools and methods to monitor, protect, and restore ecosystems. In India, several cutting-edge technologies are being deployed to enhance conservation efforts:


Figure: Remote and Camera Sensing 


  1. Drones and Remote Sensing:


Figure: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Conservation


  1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:

  2. Genetic Technologies:


International Collaborations and Initiatives


The integration of international conservation technology in India is often facilitated through global partnerships and collaborative initiatives. Some notable examples include:


  1. Wildlife Protection Solutions (WPS): This international organization collaborates with Indian conservationists to implement advanced surveillance systems in protected areas. WPS's technology helps in real-time monitoring of poaching activities, leading to quicker response times and increased arrest rates of poachers.

  2. Global Tiger Forum (GTF): India, home to over 70% of the world's tigers, is a key player in the GTF. This international consortium uses technology to monitor tiger populations, track their movements across borders, and implement anti-poaching measures. Satellite telemetry and camera traps are essential tools in these efforts.

  3. Indo-UK Collaboration on Climate Resilience: This partnership focuses on using climate modeling and data analytics to enhance India's ability to predict and respond to climate change impacts. These technologies aid in developing conservation strategies for climate-vulnerable species and habitats.


Case Studies of Success


Several projects in India have successfully harnessed international conservation technology to achieve remarkable results:


  1. Project Elephant: In collaboration with international researchers, Project Elephant uses GPS collars and drone technology to track elephant herds and mitigate human-elephant conflicts. This initiative has significantly reduced crop damage and human casualties in conflict-prone areas.

  2. Sundarbans Mangrove Restoration: Partnering with global environmental organizations, India is using satellite imagery and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to map and restore degraded mangrove forests in the Sundarbans. These efforts are crucial for protecting this unique ecosystem and its iconic species like the Bengal tiger.

  3. Snow Leopard Conservation: In the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, international conservationists are using camera traps, genetic sampling, and satellite collars to study and protect the elusive snow leopard. These technologies provide valuable insights into their behavior, habitat use, and threats.



Figure: Growth of Conservation Tech Investment in India 2016-2023

Here are some notable foreign startups and organizations operating in the conservation technology space in India:



Country of Origin: USA


  • Focus: Provides technology solutions for wildlife conservation, including real-time surveillance systems to monitor and prevent poaching activities.


  1. EarthRanger (formerly Vulcan Technologies)


Country of Origin: USA


  • Focus: Offers a data visualization and analysis software platform to support wildlife conservation and protected area management.



Country of Origin: USA


  • Focus: Uses recycled cell phones as solar-powered listening devices to detect and monitor illegal logging and poaching activities in real-time.



Country of Origin: USA


  • Focus: Uses acoustic monitoring to study and protect elephants, particularly in forest environments where visual monitoring is challenging.



Country of Origin: USA


  • Focus: An online platform that provides near-real-time data and tools for monitoring forests worldwide, helping to detect deforestation and illegal activities.



Country of Origin: UK


  • Focus: Provides a satellite-connected camera trap system that sends real-time images and alerts to conservationists to prevent poaching and monitor wildlife.



Country of Origin: UK


  • Focus: Engages in various conservation technology projects, including habitat mapping, wildlife monitoring, and anti-poaching initiatives.



Country of Origin: UK


  • Focus: Uses technology to support marine conservation, including community-based monitoring of marine biodiversity and fisheries.



Country of Origin: Singapore


  • Focus: Develops and deploys low-cost drones for various conservation applications, including wildlife monitoring, habitat mapping, and anti-poaching efforts.


Challenges and Future Prospects

While international conservation technology offers immense potential, it also presents challenges:


  1. High Costs: Advanced technologies can be expensive to procure, deploy, and maintain, which can strain the budgets of conservation organizations.

  2. Technical Expertise: Effective use of these technologies requires specialized knowledge and skills. Training local conservationists and researchers is essential for long-term success.

  3. Data Management: The large volumes of data generated by these technologies need to be effectively managed, analyzed, and utilized for conservation planning.


Despite these challenges, the future of conservation technology in India looks promising. Continued international collaboration, investment in capacity building, and innovation in affordable and scalable technologies will play a crucial role in safeguarding India's biodiversity.

Here are some notable Indian startups and companies involved in conservation technology in India:


  • Wildlife Acoustics: This US-based company has a strong presence in India, providing acoustic monitoring technologies to researchers, conservationists, and protected area managers. Their Song Meter recorders and EcoNet software help track wildlife populations, monitor biodiversity, and assess the effectiveness of conservation efforts.

  • Kheyti: This Indian startup uses satellite imagery, machine learning, and big data analytics to provide farmers with information on soil health, crop health, and water availability. This information can help farmers improve their agricultural practices and reduce their environmental impact.

  • Waycool: This Indian company builds and operates a network of cold chain facilities that help farmers store and transport their produce more efficiently. This reduces food spoilage and waste, which is a major environmental problem.

  • Ecodit Technologies: This Bengaluru-based startup uses AI and machine learning to monitor forests and detect illegal activities such as deforestation and poaching. Their cloud-based platform provides real-time insights to forest departments and conservation NGOs, helping them to better protect India's natural resources.


Conclusion


International conservation technology is transforming the landscape of environmental conservation in India. By embracing these advanced tools and fostering global partnerships, India is making significant strides in protecting its unique ecosystems and wildlife. As these technologies continue to evolve, they offer hope for a sustainable future where nature and humanity can coexist harmoniously.


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Global Launch Base helps international startups expand in India. Our services include market research, validation through surveys, developing a network, building partnerships, fundraising, and strategy revenue growth. Get in touch to learn more about us.


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