4 Ways Technology Will Save Planet Earth

Scientists state that the “sixth mass extension” has been triggered. In fact, this extension is estimated to be faster than the extension that killed dinosaurs 65 million years ago. While technology is helping us stay connected, save lives and develop the world, there’s also hope for using tech to save planet earth. Here are some phenomenal examples of how technology is helping the environment.

Save Planet Earth: Technology for Earth Day

New advancements are helping the world in ways we’ve only imagined…

1) Give Plastic a Fresh Look

Plastic is found and used in many things. It contains harmful chemicals and doesn’t biodegrade, yet we continue to see it everywhere. With few solutions to properly dispose of it, plastic is damaging the environment and our planet.

One example is plastic cutlery. Each year, 120 billion plastic utensils are discarded in India, alone. Narayana who founded Bakeys edible cutlery is transforming this issue. His idea is simple: Plastic cutlery is replaced with a utensil made from millet, wheat and rice. Not only can the edible cutlery be eaten as a source of food, but it also decomposes within five days.

SOLUTION: REPLACE PLASTIC UTENSILS WITH AN EDIBLE, BIODEGRADABLE ALTERNATIVE

The online company Precious Plastic, is transforming plastic waste from the fundamental idea of reusing and recycling. They’re providing people with the tools they need to become their own “plastic craftsman.” With the vision to make anything out of this precious material that is currently wasted, Precious Plastic aims to “turn plastic waste into something valuable.” Genius. Even if you’re not looking to start your own plastic business, why not spread the idea, for someone who might just create value from plastic waste.

SOLUTION: MAKE SOMETHING VALUABLE FROM PLASTIC

2) Experience the Earth’s Natural Treasures Virtually

Technology is booming, and as VR (virtual reality) is becoming more affordable as an industry, there are many uses that were only dreamed about. VR shuts out the world around you so you can completely become immersed in a new environment. Give virtual tourism a try: Experience the feelings of wanderlust from a chair and feel like you’re in these beautiful landscapes even if they’re off-limit to tourists in real life or just too dangerous. What a better way to save planet earth than by looking at it rather than touching or trampling it.

SOLUTION: TRAVEL VIRTUALLY TO SAVE THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

3) Monitor Wildlife Conservation with Drones

Drones have the potential to be used for many things, and they’re gaining popularity for different uses, from taking photos to delivering packages. As a way to quickly find and source information without harming the natural environment below them, drones are also being used to track and observe wildlife:

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has monitored health data from Sperm whales
The International Anti-Poaching Foundation has prevented poachers from killing wildlife
The World Wildlife Fund have observed the movements of endangered wildlife to prevent wildlife crime

While this technology is still fairly new, the opportunities it creates are an amazing way to protect endangered species and save planet earth.

SOLUTION: MOVE CONSERVATION SURVEILLANCE TO THE SKY

4) Contribute to Environmental Research

Crowdsourcing is a valuable way to advance information and the environment is no exception. Online platforms are a great way for anyone to add their opinion and help with scientific research. The best part here, you don’t even need to be an expert to save planet earth, all you need is a computer and you’re on your way!

Take action with Zooniverse, a people-powered research platform. Answer questions, learn something new and contribute to the understanding of our world. Covering 21 topics, from history to space to nature, there’s something for everyone. Discover the fossils of Lake Turkana in Kenyaor spy on penguins, the discoveries are endless.

SOLUTION: CONTRIBUTE YOUR IDEAS TO THE WORLD AROUND YOU

Share your encounters with nature by contributing to science through iNaturalist. Their platform connects you with experts who can teach you about the organisms living right in your backyard. If it’s a butterfly or a strange weed this data is also shared with scientists who find it helpful – all from your observations. Contribute to a community of naturalists and the living record of earth and you’ll help monitor the changes in biodiversity.