DJI, has announced its involvement in a groundbreaking project that aims to revolutionize biodiversity monitoring. In collaboration with the Environmental Robotics Lab at ETH Zurich and the environmental NGO Wilderness International, DJI’s advanced drone technology is enabling a pioneering approach to collect environmental DNA (eDNA) from hard-to-reach areas, significantly enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of biodiversity research.
Traditionally, biodiversity monitoring has been a labor-intensive and costly process, often requiring researchers to navigate difficult terrain to collect samples. However, this new eDNA project, which began in March 2024, offers a transformative solution. Using DJI’s Matrice drones equipped with a specially designed robotic arm developed by ETH Zurich, researchers can now collect eDNA samples from treetops, which are rich in biodiversity but challenging to access. This method not only expedites the sampling process but also minimizes disruption to the environment, providing a cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional techniques.
The integration of DJI’s drone technology with innovative sampling tools represents a significant advancement in the use of drones for scientific research. The DJI Matrice drone, customized specifically for this project, allows scientists to extract eDNA from the upper layers of rainforests. By analyzing the traces of DNA left behind by organisms, researchers can identify the species present in a specific location. This technology is especially valuable for studying the upper layers of rainforests, where an estimated 60-90% of species reside but have been historically under-sampled due to accessibility challenges.
Since the start of the project, 36 eDNA samples have been collected from three locations in the Peruvian rainforest, areas that are protected by Wilderness International. The analysis of these samples provides crucial insights into the biodiversity of these regions, supporting Wilderness International’s efforts to preserve these critical habitats.
The success of this project is made possible through a network of dedicated partners. ETH Zurich has developed the innovative eDNA sampling technology, the Audi Environmental Foundation is funding the project, and DJI is supplying the necessary drone technology. Additionally, the local research organization Fauna Forever contributes comparative data from conventional biodiversity monitoring methods, ensuring a comprehensive analysis of the new technique’s effectiveness.
“Biodiversity monitoring via drone-based eDNA sampling and analysis is groundbreaking for Wilderness International’s conservation work,” said Kai Andersch, CEO of Wilderness International. “This methodology not only enhances our ability to monitor already protected areas but also promises to revolutionize the identification of new conservation areas, enabling us to protect primary forests more efficiently.”
Looking to the future, Wilderness International plans to extend the use of this technology to their conservation areas in Canada, where biodiversity data is currently limited. The global application of this method could significantly address knowledge gaps in biodiversity research worldwide, offering a new frontier in conservation efforts.
For a closer look at this innovative project, watch the video here.