Satellite data will be used to capture a comprehensive, area-wide view of the entire mining site and analyze historical time-series data to identify large-scale changes such as deforestation and surface alterations. Based on these findings, priority areas requiring closer investigation will be identified and surveyed in detail using small drones for high-precision, site-specific measurements. AI-based analysis will then be applied to the satellite and drone data to automatically detect features such as deforestation and geological characteristics.

This approach will enable mining operators to identify potential slope failure risks at an early stage, enhance operational safety, and develop more efficient mining plans based on high-precision resource surveys. In addition, sharing objective, data-driven environmental assessment results among government authorities and local communities will help foster mutual understanding of mining development. Through these efforts, the project aims to advance “green mining,” where resource development and environmental conservation can coexist.

Comment from Yosuke Kaneko, Founder & CEO of SORA Technology 

“For researchers, mining sites in Africa have long been places they want to study but where obtaining the necessary data can be extremely challenging. The local drone operations network we have built through our malaria control initiatives across Africa is a valuable asset that can directly help overcome this barrier. We are very pleased to contribute to this research by providing locally collected data. Looking ahead, we will continue to expand our academic collaborations so that data captured from “SORA” (“sky” in Japanese) can help shape a blueprint for a future where resource development and environmental conservation go hand in hand.”