Evidence for accountability: remote sensing to prevent the environment from harms

THE QUESTION

Can we use technologies to detect environmentally damaging activities and help hold governments accountable?

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LOCATION: Bangladesh
SECTOR: Climate and Environment
TECH: AI, Big Data, Internet of Things
TIMELINE: September 2024 - Present
PIONEER: Issam Mosaddeq
PARTNERS: TBC

The Challenge

Bangladesh currently ranks as the world’s most air-polluted country, with air quality 16 times higher than WHO guidelines. In 2021 alone, air pollution caused an estimated 235,000 deaths. 

Reasons for this problem include illegal brick kilns, deforestation, and river encroachment, all driven by unchecked human activity. Although the Bangladeshi government aims to reduce pollution and protect the environment, weak governance and limited capacity make it difficult to enforce laws or detect violations. Data on air pollution and other harmful activities is scarce, with existing sensors located only in the capital, Dhaka.

The Idea

This pilot will test a combination of remote sensing and machine learning technologies to identify environmentally damaging activities. Satellites and drones will monitor land use, air quality, and environmental changes, providing accurate, real-time data. At the same time, AI will analyse the data to detect patterns and pinpoint illegal activities, enabling authorities to act swiftly.

The project will also address the lack of publicly accessible environmental data by creating an open data platform. This platform will:

• Allow civil society organisations and citizens to monitor environmental violations.

• Empower communities to pressure policymakers and hold governments accountable.

• Enable evidence-based prosecution of those breaking environmental laws.

By making this data accessible and actionable, the pilot aims to strengthen governance, reduce environmental harm, and improve public health in Bangladesh.

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Our learnings and stories so far

This pilot hasn’t started to publish yet, but there are plenty of other blogs to read below. Check back soon!