How to use drones for social good
One of the most common ways that drones are used for social good is disaster relief Drones can help aid organizations identify areas of need, deliver lifesaving supplies, and assess the damage after natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and wildfires
Some of these drone delivery projects use innovative designs that are biodegradable, edible, or reusable
For instance, Otherlab’s APSARA glider is made of paper and can carry more than two pounds of supplies to a designated location using GPS and autopilot.
Windhorse Aerospace’s Pouncer is packed with food that can be eaten by the recipients, while its protective covers can be used as shelter and its plywood frame can be used as firewood
Humanitarian aid
Another way that drones are used for social good is humanitarian aid. Drones can help provide essential services such as cellular and internet connectivity, health care, education, and sanitation to people who live in rural or conflict-affected areas.
Some of these drone projects also aim to empower local people with skills and knowledge on how to use drones for social good
For instance, UNICEF plans to launch the Africa Drone and Data Academy in Malawi that will train and certify young students on how to build, operate, and maintain drones
WeRobotics also organizes drone camps for youth in Nepal, Tanzania, and Peru that teach them how to design, build, and fly drones for social good.
Wildlife conservation
A third way that drones are used for social good is wildlife conservation Drones can help protect endangered species from poaching, habitat loss, climate change, and human-wildlife conflict.
Drones can also help collect data on wildlife behavior, population, health, and distribution
Some of these drone projects also involve local communities and stakeholders in the conservation efforts
For instance, ConservationDrones org trains local conservationists and researchers on how to use drones for their own projects. Ocean Alliance also engages local fishermen and students in their whale research and education programs
Other applications
Besides disaster relief, humanitarian aid, and wildlife conservation, there are many other ways that drones can be used for social good Here are some examples:
Fighting illegal logging and mining:
Drones can help detect and prevent deforestation and environmental degradation caused by illegal logging and mining activities. For instance, Rainforest Connection uses recycled smartphones and solar panels to create acoustic sensors that can be deployed by drones to listen for chainsaws and alert authorities of illegal logging in real time
Fighting and preventing pollution:
Drones can help monitor and reduce air, water, and land pollution by collecting samples, measuring parameters, and identifying sources.For instance, Aerodyne uses drones to inspect industrial facilities for gas leaks, emissions, and waste management
3D mapping and preservation of archaeological sites:
Drones can help create high-resolution 3D maps of ancient monuments and cultural heritage sites that are at risk of damage or destruction For instance, CyArk uses drones to document and preserve historical sites such as Angkor Wat, Mount Rushmore, and Palmyra.
Search and rescue:
Drones can help locate and rescue people who are trapped, lost, or injured in remote or dangerous areas For instance, Project Lifesaver uses drones with thermal cameras and tracking devices to find missing persons with cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s or autism.
Journalism and advocacy:
Drones can help capture and share stories that are otherwise difficult or impossible to access or report For instance, Drones for Refugees uses drones to document the plight of refugees crossing the Mediterranean Sea from Turkey to Greece
Conclusion
Drones are not only tools for war or surveillance, but also for social good. They can help address some of the world’s most pressing problems by delivering aid, protecting wildlife, collecting data, and raising awareness
However, drones also pose challenges such as ethical, legal, social, and technical issues that need to be addressed by governments, organizations, and communities. Therefore, it is important to use drones responsibly and collaboratively for the benefit of humanity and the planet.