UAVs as Support for Nature Conservation and Sustainable Development
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have become a crucial tool in the fields of nature conservation and sustainable management of natural resources, providing added value to other methods and technologies. Their ease of use and ability to carry a wide range of sensors make them indispensable tools that perfectly complement traditional methods of environmental research. A proper understanding of natural processes, occurring from the local scale to the level of complex ecosystems, is only possible through the integration of various approaches. By combining field research, UAVs, and satellite remote sensing, we gain a comprehensive and objective insight into the natural world—one that is both detailed and sufficiently broad in scope. Oikon uses UAVs in almost all areas of its work, from mapping terrestrial and marine habitats, conserving endangered species, and sustainable wildlife management, to detecting invasive species and protecting human lives through infrastructure monitoring and post-disaster assessments. Drones are also essential for scouting terrain and selecting optimal routes for field teams. In this presentation, we will share our experiences in applying this technology for nature conservation and environmental protection, highlighting how unmanned systems streamline daily work and enhance safety and efficiency.