Tech Nonprofit Tackles Invasive Species to Restore Indian Biodiversity

Tech4Good Community, a non-profit organization, has launched a new project called the Conservation Coalition to restore the Nilgiris Biosphere and Western Ghats in South India. The project aims to tackle the problem of invasive plant species that have taken over natural habitats in the region.

According to Anusha Bhargava, the co-founder and chief insights officer of Tech4Good Community, invasive species like Lantana, Camera, Senna, and Chromolaena were introduced during the British colonial era when tea plantations were established in the area. These exotic plants have since spread and overtaken the native vegetation.

To address this issue, the Conservation Coalition is partnering with organizations like the Nature Conservation Foundation and Keystone Foundation. They are using drones and artificial intelligence to map the affected areas and identify the invasive species. The coalition is also working on developing tools to monitor the progress of restoration efforts and engage the local community.

The project aims to reintroduce native plant species in the areas where the invasive plants are removed, minimizing the chances of the invasive species returning. The restored plots of land will be closely monitored to ensure the success of the restoration efforts.

The Conservation Coalition project was launched after the organization's previous Climate Coalition fellowship project did not meet expectations. Recognizing the importance of addressing specific climate-related issues, Tech4Good Community has decided to focus on this sub-sector, which is currently underfunded.