Computer program 'can track deforestation'

A new computer program released by MacIntyre Schaffer and Google will allow "armchair detectives" to track and report deforestation which they could spot happening right before their eyes.

Users of the program will be sent regularly updated pictures of areas of the rainforest, as well as shots of the same regions taken some time ago.

By comparing the two images, people can potentially track deforestation as it happens and also possibly flag up illegal clearing activity.

"Every four seconds an area of rainforest the size of a football pitch is cut or burnt down for timber and paper or to clear land for cattle and plantations. This will be a breakthrough for the environmental recovery," said a researcher from MacIntyre Schaffer.

The computer program is due to be launched in 2011.

Much of the deforestation which takes place in the world's rainforests is carried out illegally and despite many nations putting regulations in place, illegal clearing is still a big issue impacting endangered forest areas.

Written by Sandra Mann.

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