Cisco: Saving Endangered Species, One Network at a Time
In an age where technology has the potential to reshape our world, the collaboration between Cisco Systems Inc. and the Connected Conservation Foundation (CCF) shines as a beacon of hope for endangered species. This ten-year partnership, launched in response to the catastrophic poaching crisis in South Africa's Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, serves as a model for conservation efforts across the globe.
In 2015, the iconic rhinos of Sabi Sand faced annihilation due to relentless poaching for their horns, driven by misguided beliefs regarding their healing properties. Sophie Maxwell, CEO of CCF, described the alarming state of affairs: "Forty-five rhinos had been recently poached in Sabi Sands. That's when Cisco and Dimension Data stepped in to help counter the poaching crisis." The response required was swift and innovative; without action, these magnificent creatures would teeter on the edge of extinction.
Utilizing cutting-edge technologies including LoRaWan networks, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, long-range thermal cameras, and automated fence alarms, Cisco took significant strides in saving endangered species. By 2019, poaching in the Sabi Sand region had been reduced by an astonishing 96 percent. This success sparked a broader initiative, expanding the CCF's efforts to 35 protected areas across 15 nations, safeguarding not only rhinos but also a diverse array of species including gorillas, elephants, and even Andean bears.
Fran Katsoudas, Cisco's Chief People, Policy, and Purpose Officer, stated, "For 10 years, Cisco and the Connected Conservation Foundation have been joined by the belief that we can use technology to leave our planet in a better place than we found it." This partnership illustrates the profound impact that technology can have in conservation, not just for wildlife, but for local communities. Through their initiatives, CCF enhances education facilities, provides technology training, and creates career opportunities, demonstrating that the preservation of biodiversity can go hand in hand with economic development.
As we reflect on the last decade of this partnership, it challenges us to consider the role of technology in our own lives. Can we leverage it to detect thrumming heartbeats of conservation? The ongoing success of Cisco and CCF brings to life a compelling question — how can we, as individuals, contribute to the conservation of our planet’s precious wildlife? Your thoughts, insights, and experiences with technology in conservation are welcome in the comments below. Join the conversation and let’s inspire a collective effort to protect our planet’s endangered species.
