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The Future of Environmental Monitoring Soars with Anti-Smoke Pigeons

In Rome, the Future of Environmental Monitoring Soars with Anti-Smoke Pigeons

Pigeons, equipped with hi-tech sensors, are the ultimate frontier of environmental monitoring. In Rome, they are proving extremely effective to monitor pollution 

 

Picture a typical day in Rome: traffic clogging the streets, smog shrouding the monuments, and… an army of pigeons, equipped with hi-tech backpacks, flying above the city to monitor air quality. This is not the beginning of a sci-fi film but the essence of the ARIA project (Animal-boRne systems for envIromentAl monitoring) — an innovative leap forward in environmental monitoring technology, set to debut at Maker Faire Rome from 25 to 27 October.

Live pigeon launch at Maker Faire Rome!

Don’t Miss the Event: On Saturday, 26 October at 3:00 PM, head to the “Terrace (Area V)” at Gazometro Ostiense for the live pigeon launch. During this spectacular event, researchers will release sensor-equipped pigeons, explaining how they are turning these everyday birds into high-flying environmental guardians.

Why Pigeons?

The response might well be, “Why not?” Pigeons are seasoned flyers and know every corner of the city. As a natural part of the urban ecosystem, they move freely, allowing the sensors they carry to collect air quality data across wide areas and at varying atmospheric levels. This makes them ideal for real-time monitoring, with minimal disruption to their environment. Plus, their behaviour provides scientists with valuable insights into both animal biology and city life.

Technology and Science Joining Forces for the Environment

The ARIA project, developed by the Department of Industrial, Electronic and Mechanical Engineering at Roma Tre, in collaboration with CNR and other institutions, takes full advantage of advanced biologging technology. This allows researchers to track the birds and collect pollution data, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). Through sophisticated data analysis and mining techniques, scientists can identify patterns between air pollution and the pigeons’ movements, paving the way for improved urban air monitoring systems.

The event at Maker Faire offers a unique opportunity to witness this cutting-edge technology in action, against the backdrop of one of Rome’s most iconic viewpoints.

The Future Takes Flight

The ARIA project could be the key to revolutionising environmental monitoring. While pigeons freely soar over Rome carrying their smart “backpacks,” they provide critical data about the air we all breathe. One day, we may not only see flocks of pigeons but also seagulls or other animals carrying similar devices, positioning Rome as a leader in environmental innovation.

Don’t miss this chance to witness these natural drones in action on 26 October at 3:00 PM at the Terrace (Area V) of the Gazometro Ostiense!

📅 Saturday, 26 October
3:00 PM
📍 Terrace (Area V) at Gazometro Ostiense

source: Biolab3 – UniRoma Tre

cover image: Biolab3

author: Barbara Marcotulli


 

Maker Faire Rome – The European Edition has been committed since its very first editions to make innovation accessible and usable to all, with the aim of not leaving anyone behind. Its blog is always updated and full of opportunities and inspiration for makers, makers, startups, SMEs and all the curious ones who wish to enrich their knowledge and expand their business, in Italy and abroad.

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