Low-cost sensors can provide high-quality data
The needs in ocean science and conservation for data on biological and ecosystem variables globall will rely more heavily on low-cost sensors. The aim of Synchro’s testing and evaluation co-design process is to enable a broader distribution of ready-made technologies for broader use. More data collection allows for more informed decision-making. Lower upfront costs for technology allows for greater deployment of sensors to inform local decision-makers about the status of the marine environment.
In 2023, Synchro’s call for low-cost sensors will be conducted. Teams will work together with the Synchro Network stakeholders (community members, government and NGO representatives, practitioners, engineers, and scientists) to identify needs, test, and evaluate low-cost sensors under different scenarios. These low-cost sensors will allow dozens to hundreds of sensors to be deployed in an array or other platforms. The results from the testing and evaluations will be summarized as a report and made available on a public portal.