The Brazilian government have proposed a move that would bring free internet access to native Indian tribes - in a bid to help protect the Amazon rainforest from illegal logging.
The initial aim is to provide satellite access to 150 isolated regions. It is widely felt that indigenous communities are the only protectors of the forest and therefore getting them online could be crucial in saving the rainforest from destruction.
Central government would provide the satellite internet access, but the sticking point is that it would be up to state and local governments to provide the necessary computers. Already thirteen areas have been highlighted by the the key environmental agencies for the scheme.
To date reactions have been mixed and it remains to be seen if it progresses past planning stages.
Amazon Rainforest to Go Online
Amazon Rainforest To Go Online
Trend Themes
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2. Digital Inclusion - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing technologies and solutions to bridge the digital divide and ensure that marginalized communities, like native Indian tribes, have access to online resources and services.
3. Environmental Protection - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Innovating sustainable practices and technologies to protect and preserve natural resources, like the Amazon rainforest, by leveraging the power of connectivity and information.
Industry Implications
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3. Conservation and Environmental Organizations - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Partnering with governments to leverage technology and connectivity to monitor and prevent illegal logging and other activities that pose a threat to the environment.