What is Drovid?
Drovid is a Chilean SME redefining forest protection through cutting-edge technology. By combining Artificial Intelligence with drones, it offers autonomous aerial surveillance that monitors vast forest territories sustainably. This innovative approach not only detects early fire outbreaks but also prevents illegal logging and risky human activities that could spark fires. The system sends real-time alerts and manageable data to prevention brigades and emergency teams, enabling proactive protection of ecosystems and communities. Currently, Drovid is piloting its technology over 2,500 hectares in Chile’s Maule region, with ambitions to expand into Brazil, the USA, India, the European Union, and Australia. Their mission? To harness technology for the care of the environment and society, tackling the human behaviors behind 99% of forest fires worldwide.
Main Benefits and Alarming Figures
Drovid’s impact is backed by some eye-opening statistics that highlight the urgency of its mission:
- 7.8 million tons: CO2 emissions globally in 2019 caused by forest fires.
- 550,000 people: Evacuated worldwide in 2017 due to wildfires.
- 99%: Percentage of forest fires caused by humans—whether intentional, accidental, or unknown.
- US$13 billion: Insurance costs in 2018 from California’s devastating forest fires.
- 19 million hectares: Burned in Australia during 2019-2020, destroying over 3,000 homes and causing 33 fatalities.
These numbers aren’t just stats—they’re a call to action. Drovid’s technology aims to shift the paradigm from reactive firefighting to proactive prevention, tackling risks right at their source.
Why Forest Fires Are Mostly a Human Problem
Here’s the thing: 99% of forest fires are caused by humans. That’s right—negligence, accidents, or sometimes even intentional acts. Fires aren’t just “natural disasters” waiting to happen; they’re often sparked by us. And while climate change certainly makes conditions worse, the root cause remains human behavior. People ignoring campfire bans, careless actions in forest areas… it all adds up to a huge risk. Drovid’s approach focuses on this human element, using AI-powered drones to spot risky activities before they escalate.
How Drovid’s Technology Works
Drovid’s system is more than just drones flying overhead. It’s a smart, autonomous network that watches over forests 24/7. The AI integrated into these UAVs detects latent threats—like unattended campfires, signs of illegal logging, or other risky behaviors—at their earliest stages. Once a potential risk is spotted, the system sends geolocation data and detailed attributes in real time to the relevant authorities. This means prevention brigades can act immediately, neutralizing threats before they turn into full-blown disasters. It’s a game-changer, turning forest protection from a reactive scramble into a proactive shield.
The Urgency of Redefining Forest Management
We’re literally on the brink of ecological collapse. The current inaction around forest protection jeopardizes not just the planet’s habitability but also socioeconomic stability worldwide. Forest fires and illegal deforestation threaten ecosystems, economic activities, and the health and safety of communities and wildlife alike. Drovid’s mission is clear: redefine forest management by addressing risks at their origin, mitigating them before they spiral out of control. It’s about safeguarding our natural heritage and ensuring a resilient planet for generations to come.
Drovid’s Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Mitigating climate change impacts by reducing forest fire emissions.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Protecting terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Enhancing safety by preventing fires that threaten human settlements.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Leveraging AI and drone technology for environmental monitoring.
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Reducing health risks associated with smoke and fire disasters.
Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future with Drovid
Drovid is more than just a tech company—it’s a catalyst for change. By transforming how forests are protected, it’s helping to save lives, preserve ecosystems, and reduce the devastating impacts of fires and deforestation. The goal? To leave behind a thriving, prosperous planet for future generations. With its innovative AI-driven drone surveillance, Drovid is proving that technology and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. The future of forest protection is here, and it’s proactive, intelligent, and deeply committed to our planet’s well-being.
