IoT inspired tracking platform can save 4,000 reindeer each year

The DIT4BEARS project addresses problems that are specific to the Arctic Region

For many years, humans have altered nature and the physical environment. Through deforestation, construction, and various other actions, we have erased habitats, harming animals in the process. Now, we are trying to erase the damage that has been done by finding modern solutions to the problems we have created.

Focusing on real-life cases, the cross-border DIT4BEARS project uses modern technological solutions to resolve issues specific to the Arctic Region (Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Russia). Taking a case in point, it has addressed the negative impact of modern transportation in the Barents and Euro-Arctic Region on reindeer, who frequently end up in road accidents.

A tracking system to keep reindeer safe

According to the project researchers, approximately 4,000 reindeer get lost in traffic accidents every year. To prevent this from happening, researchers have sought and invented a modern solution; that is, they created an IoT-inspired digital platform that provides a variety of services with the aim of promoting the safety of the animals.

The platform reportedly comprises a wireless and high node-count sensor network that gathers information from individual reindeer as well as a cloud-based environment. What is more, it seeks to reduce collisions with animals and improve traffic safety.

Interviewing reindeer herders in northern Finland after the launch of the platform, the researchers asked questions relating to the movement and activity of reindeer and the owners’ experience with the tracking solutions. In response, they shared that the platform saves them time and money.

Although the responses were overall positive, the researchers have shared that there is still room for improvement. For example, the platform can benefit from more real-time tracking data. In addition to this, DIT4BEARS wants to share the reindeer tracking data with applications that can warn drivers in case the animals are present nearby.