Pyri is low-cost, bio-based wildfire detection system designed to alert communities quickly, reducing wildfire damage and protecting forestlands; with wildfires projected to increase 50% globally by 2100, Pyri’s tech offers scalable coverage

September 13, 2024 (press release) –

Pyri: A Bio-Inspired Wildfire Detection System

What it does:
Pyri is a cost-effective, bio-based system designed for early wildfire detection in remote and vulnerable communities. It uses organic electronics activated by heat from emerging wildfires to emit an RF signal, alerting nearby populations.

Inspiration:
The rising frequency of wildfires, especially in underprepared regions like the Arctic and tropical forests, demands innovative detection methods. Drawing inspiration from serotinous pine cones that release seeds during fires, Pyri offers a sustainable, nature-derived solution that addresses the need for rapid, scalable wildfire detection without the high costs of conventional systems.

How it works:
PyriPods are dispersed in remote areas by local authorities or firefighting helicopters. When triggered by heat from a wildfire, a power-generating circuit sends an RF signal via an antenna made from a novel charcoal composite. This signal is then triangulated, cross-referenced with weather and satellite data, and transmitted to emergency responders, giving communities critical early warning. The biodegradable PyriPods burn up, leaving minimal environmental impact.

Design process:
Through interviews with over 20 wildfire experts and communities from regions like Canada, Jamaica, and Türkiye, Pyri’s design was tailored to the specific challenges faced by those impacted by wildfires. Extensive testing and collaboration with RF engineers and Hazelab at Imperial College led to material innovations and the development of a functional, sustainable detection system. A patent has been filed for Pyri's unique materials and technology.

What makes it different:
Unlike expensive IoT sensors or drones, Pyri is a low-cost, easy-to-deploy solution that integrates seamlessly into existing forest management systems. Its use of environmentally safe materials, rather than rare-earth components, sets it apart as a truly sustainable option for wildfire detection. Pyri's scalability and precision in location tracking also make it an ideal choice for broad, resource-limited regions.

Future plans:
With a patent pending, Pyri is advancing towards manufacturing alpha units for field testing. The team is forging partnerships with national parks and private landowners to conduct pilot tests, aiming to refine and expand the system for widespread use.

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