BIOSEC bitesize: technologies

7 September 2020

Over the next month, we will be focusing on our research themes. Through our ‘BIOSEC Bitesize’ series, we will look back on the key publications, blogs and podcasts that define our research, and offer you a curated reading list for each topic.

First up is…

Technologies

Technologies such as geo-location databases, connected camera traps, satellite imagery and drones are popular tools in the conservation sector. While there are lively debates around the best technical specifications, or appropriate business models for adoption of technologies, much remains to be uncovered about the social and political impact of these technologies.

Research from the BIOSEC project aims to fill this gap by highlighting what the increased adoption of technologies means for conservation labour. We also examine the impact unprecedented data collection has on communities living in or around conserved areas and protected species. How are their rights, wellbeing and relationship to conservation affected by the presence of these technologies?

Our specific focus is on the use of technology to help combat illegal logging in Romania, and for conservation management in Indonesia.

Team members

Laure Joanny

Doctoral researcher – laure.joanny@sheffield.ac.uk

George Iordăchescu

Post-doctoral researcher – g.a.iordachescu@sheffield.ac.uk

Research

Policy briefs

Zines

Notes on Illegal Wildlife Trade

Short film

  • Technology

Podcast

  • Drones and databases: the appeal of technology for conservation