New Zealand researchers are using drones and satellites to protect eucalyptus forests from costly pest damage.
New Zealand researchers are pioneering drone and satellite technology to protect the country's expanding eucalyptus plantations from damaging pests.
A team at the University of Canterbury (UC) is using remote sensing tools to monitor over 15,000 hectares of eucalyptus, introduced as a sustainable and chemical-free alternative to treated pine. These trees face a growing threat from leaf-chewing paropsine beetles, which can cause significant canopy damage.
UC PhD candidate Shiva Pariyar, who led the study, said the project uses drone-mounted sensors and satellite imagery to detect early signs of pest infestation and tree stress. This allows land managers to respond quickly, even in remote areas, and reduces reliance on costly ground inspections.
According to UC Associate Professor Steve Pawson, pest-related losses cost the industry up to 10 million NZ dollars annually, with control measures adding another 2.6 million NZ dollars each year.
The research supports New Zealand’s goal to expand eucalyptus plantations to 100,000 hectares by 2050. Pariyar said the technology could offer a scalable model for global sustainable forestry.
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Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for the 15th of February, covering the latest developments you need to know.
New Zealand declared a state of emergency in Otorohanga on Saturday (14 February) after torrential rain caused severe flooding, power outages and evacuations.
Several people, including children, were reported missing in New Zealand's north island on Thursday after a landslide struck a coastal campsite amid heavy rain that caused evacuations of people to safety, road closures and widespread power outages.
The U.S.-Israeli war with Iran loomed over U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to China, as signs emerged that the conflict is causing a shift in alliances across the Middle East.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran has “no trust” in the United States and will only consider negotiations if Washington shows seriousness. His remarks came as talks on Iran’s nuclear programme continued, with Trump and Xi also opposing Iran acquiring nuclear weapons.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was fighting for his political survival on Thursday (14 May) after Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned, saying he had “lost confidence” in Starmer’s leadership.
Türkiye has issued 20,000 work visas to Afghan citizens for jobs in the livestock sector, the Turkish Embassy’s chargé d’affaires in Kabul said during talks with Afghanistan’s refugee minister on Wednesday.
The second semi-final of the 70th Eurovision Song Contest 2026 takes place tonight in a rain-soaked Vienna, with the final 10 places in Saturday’s grand final still up for grabs.
Uzbekistan has launched a nationwide environmental initiative titled ‘Day Without Cars’, which will take place twice a month as part of efforts to improve air quality and reduce vehicle emissions.
The thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum will open in Baku on Sunday, bringing together government representatives, city leaders, urban planners, international organisations, businesses and civil society to discuss the future of sustainable urban development.
Matiul Haq Khalis, Director General of Afghanistan’s National Environmental Protection Agency, has travelled to Baku to attend the 13th World Urban Forum, where climate change and safer cities will be discussed.
Children laughed, applauded and watched wide-eyed as animated characters lit up the screen at the opening of the ninth Animafilm International Animation Festival in Baku, where filmmakers and audiences from around the world gathered to celebrate the growing influence of animated cinema.
Israeli airstrikes killed at least seven Palestinians in Gaza on Friday (15 May), including a child, as Israel said it had launched an operation targeting Hamas military commander Izz al-Din al-Haddad.
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