Conservation Technology Innovations: AI, Drones and GIS
Discover how cutting-edge tools like AI, drones and GIS are reshaping the future of conservation. In just eight weeks, you’ll gain hands-on experience turning complex ecological data into powerful strategies that drive real impact in biodiversity protection and restoration.
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Overview
Conservation Technology Innovations: AI, Drones and GIS is a 15-hour learning experience for mid-career professionals who want a practical introduction to GIS, remote sensing, drone-based monitoring and AI for effective conservation work. You'll learn how to interpret spatial and satellite data, choose the right tools for monitoring and modeling, and turn data into actionable information for decision-makers. We'll cover the ethics of data collection, use and publication, including data sovereignty and governance structures.
Throughout this course, you can expect to:
- Assess priority zones and model ecological scenarios using GIS, satellite data, and remote sensing indices.
- Guide investment in restoration projects by mapping ecological health and degraded cover with Google Earth Engine and QGIS.
- Design and manage drone-based monitoring plans, including logistics, permitting, biodiversity indicators, and data workflows.
- Apply generative AI for literature review, project planning, and code development in Google Earth Engine, while integrating ethical practices.
- Create data governance frameworks that address sovereignty, responsible use, and effective communication to decision-makers.
- Develop an applied workflow that integrates ecological data with stakeholder input to inform conservation decisions.
Once you complete this course, you'll have foundational, hands-on experience to confidently keep pace with the latest technologies and apply them to real-world conservation and biodiversity restoration challenges.
This program was developed with expertise from the following:
- Jiwei Li, Assistant Professor, School of Ocean Futures
- Max Wright, Director of Spatial Planning and Priority Setting, Conservation International.
- Carly Batist, Nature Tech & AI Innovation Manager, Conservation International
- Yash Pachchigar, AI Innovation Specialist, ASU Learning Enterprise
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This program was developed with expertise from the following:
- Jiwei Li, Assistant Professor, ASU School of Ocean Futures
- Max Wright, Director of Spatial Planning and Priority Setting, Conservation International.
- Carly Batist, Nature Tech and AI Innovation Manager, Conservation International
- Yash Pachchigar, AI Innovation Specialist, ASU Learning Enterprise
Who this course is designed for:
- Data specialists interested in developing knowledge and skills in using geospatial, remote sensing and field survey data.
- Directors or managers preparing to lead conservation initiatives that leverage emerging technologies for conservation planning.
- Resource managers looking to evolve AI and GIS skills to track and manage natural resources and communicate conservation needs to decision-makers.
- Data analysts seeking to transition to roles that collect, analyze, and interpret environmental data for more effective conservation-related decision-making.
- Wildlife researchers interested in expanding their technological skills in GIS, remote sensing, and drone monitoring.
Outcomes
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
- Use foundational skills in GIS, remote sensing, drone technology and AI to support ecological restoration and conservation decision-making.
- Interpret spatial and satellite data, select appropriate technologies for monitoring and modeling, and evaluate outputs in alignments with conservation goals.
- Identify restoration priorities, design basic monitoring plans, and understand data governance in cross-sector contexts.
Practical skills you will develop
This program equips learners with vital skills to thrive in today’s complex workforce. Key skills include:
Environmental data analysis
Artificial intelligence
Drone operation
Unmanned aerial systems
Remote sensing
Geographic information systems (GIS)
These skills apply to these careers
Geographers
Study the Earth's surface and analyze geographic data using GIS and spatial analysis tools to support planning, environmental management, and policy decisions.
Median Salary: $90,880
Natural Sciences Manager
Plans and directs scientific research, including tech integration for environmental programs.
Median Salary: $161,180
Instructors
Jiwei Li
Assistant Professor, School of Ocean Futures
Arizona State University
Arizona State University
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