The e-FORESTER project, an innovative initiative aimed at transforming forest monitoring and conservation through robotics and AI, officially launched on Monday at the Cyprus Space Exploration Organisation (CSEO) Space Centre.

This EU-funded project is a collaboration between Cyprus, Italy, and Poland, designed to develop an autonomous robotic vehicle that will monitor forest ecosystems, support sustainable forestry, and advance the goals of the European Green Deal.

The launch event brought together prominent stakeholders, including the Ambassador of Poland, representatives from the Office of the Chief Scientist, the European Commission Representation in Cyprus, and all project partners. Speakers at the event emphasized the project's potential to address pressing environmental challenges while underscoring the importance of international collaboration.

The e-FORESTER project is poised to bring transformative changes to forest conservation in Cyprus and beyond. By integrating advanced technologies, the project contributes to sustainable forestry practices and enhances biodiversity conservation across Europe. For Cyprus, it marks a significant milestone, positioning the country as a leader in environmental technology and innovation. It also has tangible economic benefits, fostering job creation, encouraging international investment, and supporting local economic growth.

Cyprus’s forests have faced severe challenges in recent years, including devastating forest fires, land degradation, and threats to biodiversity. The e-FORESTER project directly addresses these issues by deploying technology that prevents and mitigates forest fires, promotes reforestation, and combats deforestation. Additionally, it aids in identifying and protecting endangered species and managing invasive species that threaten the island's unique ecosystems.

Beyond environmental concerns, the project also protects Cyprus's cultural heritage. Its advanced monitoring systems can detect and safeguard archaeological sites located within forested areas, ensuring that the country’s history is preserved alongside its natural environment.

The Cyprus Space Exploration Organisation (CSEO), a key partner in the project, is a leading research institution dedicated to space innovation and diplomacy. As the host of COSPAR’s International Space Innovation Centre, CSEO plays a pivotal role in fostering technological advancement and collaboration on a global scale.

Space Systems Solutions (S3) Ltd, the project’s coordinator, is a Cyprus-based company specializing in cutting-edge space technologies and applications, further highlighting the country’s growing prominence in high-tech industries.