“It is not always feasible to build fences and crossing structures to keep animals off the road, so technological approaches such as animal detection and deterrent systems are increasingly being considered and applied.”
With the rapid advances in remote sensing, machine learning, artificial intelligence and automation, there is significant potential to leverage technology to reduce Australia’s animal road toll. Currently estimated at 10 million animals each year, this toll includes threatened species and populations that are already vulnerable due to increasing urbanisation and climate impacts.
Local and international speakers at the symposium discussed options including animal detection and identification systems, animal deterrent systems such as ‘virtual fences’, and in-car and roadside warning systems for motorists and vehicle automation.
“Innovations are emerging, but it’s crucial that we carefully investigate the evidence base and the ecological and technological considerations that underpin the different options,” says Rodney. “Future trials will be critical for demonstrating which options can be applied effectively in Australian transport settings – and indeed around the world – to make a meaningful difference to the safety of animals and people.”
An international expert in the topic, Rodney publishes, presents and consults across the world, including with all levels of government in Australia and the European Union. He is passionate about extending knowledge and collaboration between transport and ecology to increase global awareness of the threats of infrastructure on biodiversity.
Rodney joined WSP’s Ecology team in 2015, to support clients to realise their infrastructure goals while also helping communities and their surrounding habitats thrive. As well as his role at WSP, he is active in applied research at The University of Melbourne. He is also the Chair of the ANET and co-Chair of the IUCN Transport Working Group.
WSP ecologist Tahlia Townsend helped organise the symposium. She has a lead role in writing the directions paper to guide TfNSW future investment in this area, as well as a peer-reviewed scientific publication.
A highlight for her was how the symposium brought together people who rarely work together – such as ecologists, data analysts and technology experts. “Only by bringing together such diverse specialists can we progress this important area of research and development,” says Tahlia.
WSP ecologists Charlotte George and Bastian Steinrucken were also present at the symposium. They both want more evidence-based research of the different technologies and methodologies emerging around the world, including monitoring of sites where technologies such as wildlife fencing and wildlife crossing structures have been installed.
“There is not a lot of data throughout the country to determine how effective some of the new technologies are, which could alter the course of further research and extend the use of these technologies,” says Charlotte.
“Collision reduction technologies are not necessarily essential under legislation, but more solid evidence of success will help to persuade clients to incorporate novel solutions into their projects. This will be good both for animals and human road users, as well as for the rest of our nation’s biodiversity and wellbeing.”
The symposium’s findings, along with a comprehensive literature review, will be consolidated into a peer-reviewed publication and a directions paper. These resources will guide the future investment of TfNSW (including trials of the most promising technologies) and other transport agencies globally.
To find out more about the research contact Rodney Van der Ree.
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