Extreme E, Vodafone Business and MEDSEA deliver fire detection technology breakthrough in Sardinia
The championship has partnered with the MEDSEA Foundation and its Official Technology Communications Partner, Vodafone Business, to develop forest fire detection innovations in a region hardest-hit by wildfires utilising the latter’s Internet of Things (IoT) platform.
Now a significant breakthrough has been achieved, with a live-test of Vodafone Business’ IoT detection sensors successfully exchanging information on the location of a fire to instantly trigger the necessary emergency response. This collaborative achievement marks a major development in fire prevention technology, with these sophisticated sensors able to deliver a much faster-acting solution to the problem of wildfire detection than using cameras or satellites.
The sensors have collected a wealth of data, which has enabled them to strengthen their ability to recognise the signs of an imminent fire. In addition to smoke, they can detect a wide range of other environmental changes, such as heat and humidity to gas and temperature. The devices are also connected to a Tree Growth Monitor sensor developed by Vodafone Business, to provide even more precise data.
These connected sensors are strategically placed in Santu Lussurgiu Forest in Sardinia approximately 100 metres apart from each other.
Forest fires have devastated forests in Sardinia and elsewhere in the Mediterranean region. In 2021, the fires blazed through 20,000 hectares of land, displaced over 1,000 people and killed around 30 million bees. Wildfires such as these are responsible for 20 per cent of total global CO2 emissions and cost $5bn to fight.
Ali Russell, Managing Director of Extreme E, said: “Delivering impactful, innovative solutions for the climate crisis is going to need a collaborative effort and our Legacy Programme in Sardinia is a really strong example of that. This latest milestone achieved by Vodafone Business and MEDSEA is hugely important, with world-leading technology utilised to successfully demonstrate the possibility of detecting potential fires at their inception.
“This could have significant, positive ramifications for Sardinia, which has been so deeply affected by wildfires in the region. There are not only monetary impacts in terms of the cost of firefighting and strain on the economy, but it is an innovative, sustainable system which can save lives and wildlife species.
“A lot of great work has been undertaken by Vodafone Business and MEDSEA in developing this technology and we are looking forward to seeing this environmental initiative grow.”
Amanda Jobbins, Chief Marketing Officer at Vodafone Business, said: “This technological breakthrough is just one of many examples that show how digital services can help protect against the impacts of climate change. The next challenge is delivering these solutions at scale. This can only be achieved through more collaboration between governments and industry.”
Carlo Poddi, a forestry expert and Head of MEDSEA's Terrestrial Reforestation Activities, said: “Climate change scenarios put us in a state of permanent alert, making the increasingly extensive use of technology essential. These tools allow us to respond more effectively and adapt to the changing conditions that threaten our ecosystems.”
Extreme E will return for an Island X Prix double-header, co-organised by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna, on 14-15 and 21-22 September 2024.
