Harrogate robotics firm Synthotech working on Earth’s biodiversity

Harrogate-based Synthotech has partnered with a team of leading researchers and experts to support a groundbreaking study. The researchers consulted with more than 100 international experts, ecologists, and engineers working in biodiversity and robotics to evaluate the potential of robotics and automated systems (RAS) that could extend the scope of terrestrial biodiversity monitoring across habitats globally.

Engineering business Synthotech develops advanced AI-capable robots currently used to detect harmful leaks and fix pipes, which are all designed, developed and manufactured in the UK. The robots can be deployed remotely for long distances, which speeds up the investigation process.

Using its robotics expertise, Synthotech is supporting critical biodiversity research, to explore the challenges and understand where robots could be applied for ecosystem monitoring to support biodiversity conservation.

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Simon Langdale, engineering director at Synthotech, said: “Ecologists are increasingly calling on the help of robotics and automated systems (RAS) experts to monitor the state of global biodiversity. The project shows just how crucial robotics can be in helping to monitor the planet's biodiversity so that measures can be put forward for protection and preservation. It’s a real privilege that our work in robotics could help support biodiversity sustainability.”

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Simon Langdale concluded: “We are fortunate in the UK to have particular strengths in biodiversity research and robotics. We are also in an ideal position to integrate these strengths and become a leading force in the development and application of RAS systems.

"The valuable role that robotics technology and AI have to offer cannot be underestimated in this sphere.”