About this episode
With wildlife populations plummeting, conservation teams are fighting back, using cutting-edge technology to track and protect the world’s flora and fauna. We discuss this with: Shannon Dubay, director of conservation technology, Panthera, Cape Town, South Africa: Dubay discusses how teams use camera traps, satellite imagery, AI and other technologies in cat conservation, how teams are analyzing and acting on data faster in Zambia, how tech advancements have changed teams’ success metrics in conservation projects, plus how predictive analytics could transform conservation efforts moving forward. Dave Thau, global data and technology lead scientist, World Wildlife Fund (WWF), San Francisco: Thau talks about how the role of AI has evolved in conservation and helped boost efficiency. He also discusses WWF’s ManglarIA Project, which uses AI and other tech to measure the impact of climate change on mangroves in Mexico. Plus, Thau takes listeners through how the team is leaning into innovation and adaptability as well as working with community members to futureproof their efforts. Key themes [02:33] Using camera traps, drones and AI to conserve cats in the wild [07:41] How teams are analyzing—and acting on—data faster [11:10] Tech’s impact on success metrics for conservation projects [12:02] How predictive analytics could change future conservation projects [14:58] The evolution of AI in conservation projects [17:35] How WWF is using AI to measure the impact of climate change on mangroves in Mexico [20:26] Focusing on innovation, adaptability and community engagement in conservation