In a significant move towards enhancing forest fire detection, Italian telecom tower operator Inwit has expanded its collaboration with the civil defense organization Legambiente. This partnership aims to leverage advanced technology to combat the rising threat of wildfires, particularly in the summer months.
Inwit has introduced smart cameras integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) software at the top of its telecom towers. This innovative system is designed to detect fires in their early stages, significantly improving response times and potentially saving lives. The technology has been deployed in various locations across the Abruzzo region, known for its picturesque landscapes and natural reserves.
The initiative comes in response to the alarming increase in wildfire incidents in Italy, especially during extreme heat waves. Last summer, the country experienced devastating wildfires that claimed the lives of seven individuals in Sicily, where temperatures soared to a staggering 47°C (116°F).
Currently, the new fire detection technology has been installed in the municipalities of Pescasseroli, located within the Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park, and Pettorano sul Gizio, which is part of the Monte Genzana Alto Gizio Regional Nature Reserve. Inwit plans to extend this deployment to additional areas, including the Lecceta di Torino di Sangro Regional Nature Reserve, the Bosco Don Venanzio Nature Reserve in Pollutri, and the Municipality of Civitella Roveto, where monitoring of the Longagna area is set to begin next month.
The initiative involves five towers equipped with a total of five gateways and nine smart cameras. The strategic positioning of these cameras atop the towers maximizes the observation area, with an average detection radius of 2 kilometers that can extend up to 5 kilometers in some cases. This setup allows the system to monitor a maximum area of approximately 80 square kilometers.
Michelangelo Suigo, head of external relations, communication, and sustainability at Inwit, emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability into their operations. He stated, “The environmental and fire monitoring projects we are carrying out are a concrete example of the integration of sustainability into our business. The implementation of these activities confirms the value for the territory and the role of our digital and shared infrastructures, which not only enable operators’ 4G and 5G services but also host various technologies. This offers more integrated and innovative services that actively contribute to the protection of the environment and biodiversity.”
The urgency of such initiatives is underscored by the current wildfire situation in northern California, where a raging fire is reportedly consuming 5,000 acres every hour. Over 3,700 firefighters are engaged in efforts to control the blaze, highlighting the critical need for advanced fire detection and management systems.
As climate change continues to exacerbate the frequency and intensity of wildfires globally, the proactive measures taken by Inwit and Legambiente serve as a model for other regions facing similar threats. By harnessing the power of technology, these organizations are not only safeguarding natural resources but also enhancing community resilience against the devastating impacts of wildfires.
Inwit’s commitment to innovation and sustainability reflects a growing trend among telecom operators to expand their roles beyond traditional services. By investing in technologies that contribute to environmental protection, companies can play a vital part in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, ultimately benefiting both the ecosystem and local communities.
