A team of engineers from London has introduced Pyri, a compact, autonomous, and eco-friendly sensor for early detection of forest fires. The device is made from wax and charcoal, inspired by pyro-sunescence—the ability of some plants to respond to high temperatures—and built in the form of a pinecone. It requires no maintenance and can run without recharging for years.
When exposed to high temperatures, Pyri activates: an internal capsule melts and sends an alarm signal to rescue services. Artificial intelligence analyzes the data to rule out false alarms. The sensor can be easily disguised in the forest, contains no toxic components, and is considered safe even during burning.
The project is intended for countries with limited access to expensive technology. The device is currently being tested by forestry services and farmers, and a market launch is expected in 2027. Pyri has already received the prestigious James Dyson Award. Its main advantages are affordability, environmental friendliness, and straightforward design, which could help preserve forests and save lives.
