Many startups have tried to tackle the issue of early wildfire detection and prevention, but ForestGuard, based in Turkey, might just have the upper hand with its space-based system.

ForestGuard was founded by Muhammed Ali Örnek and Suat Batuhan Esirger, both trained architects who saw firsthand the urgent need for early detection after witnessing the devastating impact of wildfires in Turkey in 2021.

The duo realized that existing systems using thermal sensors or satellites had limitations due to line-of-sight requirements for communication. To address this, they came up with a unique concept of a wearable device for trees that analyzes the air to detect fires.

After experimenting with various prototypes using LoRa communication protocol, ForestGuard saw promising results. Their sensors, installed in southern Turkey in October 2022, successfully detected alarming conditions within three weeks, triggered by a person smoking a cigarette.

To enhance their sensor’s capabilities, the company settled on a small, solar-powered box with sensors that measure air resistance values and create an ‘air fingerprint.’ This system, dubbed the “Internet of Trees” or the “WoodWideWeb,” can detect different activities like smoking or emissions from nearby vehicles, as well as wildfires.

ForestGuard transitioned to using satellite connectivity for its sensors after Turkey’s earthquake last year disrupted terrestrial communication infrastructure, making the company prioritize disaster-proof solutions.

Their latest technology integrates a sensor-to-satellite RF communication system, allowing wide-spectrum sensors to collect various data and transmit it to EchoStar satellites in geostationary orbit. If emergency conditions are detected, the satellite alerts ForestGuard, customers, or authorities for prompt action.

For high-risk areas near manufacturing facilities or high human traffic, ForestGuard recommends one device per hectare, while for low-risk areas, one device per 16 to 32 hectares. Presently, their sensor models are monitoring millions of square meters of forests in Turkey, with ongoing trials in France, Australia, and England.

Expanding beyond wildfire detection, ForestGuard shifted its focus to industrial fire detection, catering to forest ministries, industrial sites, hotels, and insurance companies. The devices are sold for approximately $500 each or leased at $250 per device per year, with an additional annual subscription fee of $100.

ForestGuard is currently seeking to raise a $1 million seed round to scale its operations and impact.