Using IoT technology and machine learning algorithms, ForestGuard autonomously detects forest fires and alerts authorities. Our approach centers on placing sensor-equipped devices deployed on trees, functioning infrastructure free with satellite connection and solar panel charging. The Infrastructure-free, satellite-connected technology, powered by solar energy and Li-Ion hyper capacitors enhances ForestGuard’s early detection capabilities. The sensor modules collect environmental data from the surroundings and process it to detect any abnormal situation like sudden changes in variables. Our tests show that ForestGuard modules can detect a controlled burn, from 70m, within the first 5-15 minutes. Sensors have a range of 100m radius and modules can communicate up to 15km. It is cost-effective: with ForestGuard, you can protect 40 hectares of forest, at a cost of forestation of one hectare of forest.
"Forestguard" emerged during our voluntary efforts in 2021 while combating forest fires. We developed a system with the idea that if trees could notify authorities when they are on fire, we could detect forest fires early and minimize the ecological and economic damages caused by fires.
ForestGuard aims to tackle the critical issue of forest and industrial fires, providing an early detection system to minimize their ecological and economic impact. The project addresses the challenge of timely identification and intervention to prevent disasters caused by wildfires. ForestGuard detects forest fires within the first 15 minutes and notifies authorities, functioning independently from infrastructure with sensor-based readings, solar panel charging, and satellite connection. This rapid response enables swift intervention, mitigating the spread of fires and reducing associated damages. Our devices are fixed on tree trunks at a height of 3 meters by using an elastic strap that does not hinder the tree growth. We place one device per 16 hectare. This allows us to continuously monitor the forest. Through the machine learning algorithm we use, we can differentiate whether smoke in the forest is from an exhaust, a cigarette, or an actual forest fire. Our design prioritizes sustainability, utilizing recycled materials and renewable energy sources. Usage of recycled plastics from forests aligns with sustainability goals. Additionally, our system is scalable and adaptable, capable of integrating additional sensors and communication protocols to meet evolving needs.
