Pyronear

Pyronear is an open-source project focused on the common good, specifically for the early detection and management of wildfires. This non-profit NGO aims to democratize low-tech, open solutions to combat wildfires, benefiting both ecosystems and citizens. The organization develops an early detection solution that is open source, efficient, automatic, energy-efficient, economical, and modular.

The solution leverages collective intelligence through its volunteer base to co-develop all its code, which is freely available. It prioritizes early detection to allow for quick intervention by emergency services, thereby limiting the impact of fires. Pyronear also fosters open data by building and sharing a dataset of collected and annotated images with partners and volunteers, ensuring broad accessibility and utility.

Pyronear functions as a complete fire risk management solution. It integrates an early wildfire detection algorithm on a microcomputer, which is connected to cameras strategically positioned on high vantage points overlooking forests. These detectors communicate fire alerts to a central database, which then interfaces with a supervision platform used by fire departments for rapid response. The approach is energetically sober, aligning with low-tech principles to enable easier deployment and responsible resource use.