Could Blockchain Technology Transform Wildlife Conservation?

Wildlife conservation relies on robust data, to help conservationists understand what’s happening within habitats. Detailed understanding of landscapes, communities, and ecosystems is crucial for reacting quickly to threats. Now, blockchain technology—the same tech that powers cryptocurrencies—has the potential to transform how we track and safeguard wild animals.

Blockchain is a shared, digital record of information. Think of it as a giant, shared spreadsheet where information (blocks) are added chronologically, forming a chain. Instead of one person or company controlling the spreadsheet, it’s spread across many computers. When a block is added to the chain, it’s difficult to alter it, making it highly secure.

How does this relate to wildlife conservation? Researchers believe blockchain can create a secure, shared database of wildlife information, enabling real-time tracking and rapid responses to threats like poaching. For example, drone-collected data could be securely stored on a blockchain, preventing tampering and misuse.

At SOS, we understand that effective conservation relies on detailed monitoring and modelling. By embracing technological advancements, we can strategically invest our resources where the need is greatest, to achieve the best outcomes for orangutans.