Technology helps Pygmies protect their rainforest

Global Positioning System (GPS) technology is enabling Pygmy people in the Congo Basin to defend their forest from loggers, the BBC reports. 

Pygmies, who are hunter-gatherers, rely on the forest for their livelihoods and the GPS technology allows them to record the exact locations of their hunting grounds, sacred trees and rivers.  By mapping the forest on hand held devices and uploading the information to a central database the Baka Pygmies and the Cameroon national Government will be able to monitor the activities of logging companies and hold them to account.  The project is a brilliant example of how modern technology can empower local forest communities to protect their land rights. 

Cool Earth is currently working with partners to look into similar forms of technology which will help indigenous people safeguard their forest.

Bookmark this page: