Telia uses 5G for monitoring blue-green algae in the Baltic Sea

Video from a drone, computer vision and super fast 5G connections have been used to monitor and provide real-time insights into environmental conditions in the Baltic Sea. In the trial Nokia, Nordkapp, Finnish Environment Institute SYKE, Telia and Vaisala developed new tools for SYKE researchers for monitoring the environment.

The blue-green algae situation was monitored with a drone and computer vision in a trial in Kirkkonummi, Finland. The camera and sensor-equipped drone was flown over the Baltic Sea, and the high-resolution video was transmitted over 5G for real-time analysis.

“Blue-green algae monitoring is based on multiple sources of information, including satellite imagery and automated chlorophyll measurements from ferries sailing the Baltic Sea. This data is combined with local visual observations made at the shoreline. In the trial in Kirkkonummi, the drones operated over a wide area outside the line of sight, and the information was transferred in real time to computer vision. Under good conditions, computer vision detected blue-green algae with over 90 percent accuracy,” says Jari Silander of SYKE.

Drone-shot video, fast connections and real-time AI-driven data analysis in data centers offer significant new opportunities for environmental monitoring. Besides blue-green algae, drones can be used to track the spread of plastic waste or locate oil leaks. Timely information adds to the situational awareness of the environment specialists and researchers and helps to make quick decisions to prevent environmental hazards.

5G, computer vision and video analytics – the technology behind new monitoring methods
”5G technology has proved to be excellent in providing detailed and accurate real-time data for the computer vision, something that can be used in a variety of different areas,” says Pia Tanskanen, Head of Environment at Nokia. “This trial shows how 5G can make a real positive impact on what we can do for our environment.”

“Drones in combination with Vaisala’s computer vision capabilities provide unprecedented, real-time insights into environmental conditions. As we are continuously exploring new ways to apply Vaisala technologies for the benefit of society and the environment, we are extremely excited to be part of this initiative,” says Erik Sucksdorff, Head of Strategy at Vaisala’s Weather and Environment Business Area.

”5G, with its low latency and greater capacity, has already proven its usefulness in video analytics in industrial solutions. It is also excellent for drone management and communication, with the projected growth of drone traffic,” says Janne Koistinen, 5G Program Lead at Telia Finland. 

”This pilot is a great example how we can together develop solutions for society’s pressing needs and challenges. Our role has been to explore new connections, find purpose for new technology and bring right players together. We are happy to see that this project lead to fruitful co-operation and real-life pilot,” says Ilkka Haavisto, Business Development Director at Nordkapp.

This content extract was originally sourced from an external website (Telia) and is the copyright of the external website owner. TelecomTV is not responsible for the content of external websites. Legal Notices

Email Newsletters

Sign up to receive TelecomTV's top news and videos, plus exclusive subscriber-only content direct to your inbox.