Mobile Phones for Endangered Species

Mobile phones may not be of much use to a jaguar or panda, but the technology used in them is certainly a way to help our furry friends. One of the growing trends among conservationists is to use GSM technology and existing mobile networks to track a wide range of endangered species.

There was a time when this technique wouldn’t have even been possible considering that many endangered species are located in remote or underdeveloped areas. There are villages where people struggle for food and shelter, where mobile phones are the last thing on their minds. If you think that, you would be wrong. Sure, there are still places like that in the world, but the inexpensive mobile phone market is booming. Plus, there is a plethora of programmes which offer free used cell phones to underdeveloped nations. Still think it’s not possible?

A recent survey shows that 30% of the population of the Sub-Saharan Africa, owns a mobile phone. That equals more than 300 million people. Even more have access to mobile phone technology through Village Phones, Shared Phones, or friends and family.

In many remote areas, the mobile phone explosion has created the opportunity for conservationists to communicate with one another, through calls or more likely, text messages. The opportunities in this area are endless.

In other areas, people who received donated or recycled phones now have direct communication to doctors, pharmacies, schools and family. Previously, it could take days to get in contact with a doctor. It also allows activists to report crimes and human rights violations.

Think of this when you buy a new phone and recycle.

For more information, visit: grameenfoundation.org/what_we_do/technology_programs/village_phone/