Gain insight into the impact of the Sudanese civil war on tech workers and businesses, revealing resilience amid adversity. Discover innovative solutions that transform discarded fishing nets into 3D printed products, blending environmental consciousness with creativity. Also, explore cutting-edge technology that visualizes wind patterns in real-time during yacht racing, enhancing the spectator experience and athletic performance across various sports. Join the conversation about sustainability and technological advancements that can change our world.
The civil war in Sudan has critically disrupted its tech sector, forcing companies to adapt and relocate operations to survive.
Innovative recycling initiatives are transforming abandoned fishing nets into 3D printable materials, creating economic opportunities while addressing environmental issues.
Deep dives
Impact of War on Sudan's Tech Sector
The civil war in Sudan has severely disrupted the country's developing technology sector, forcing companies like Savannah Innovation Labs to relocate operations and adapt to challenging conditions. After the outbreak of war, significant logistical hurdles arose, including the loss of their headquarters in Khartoum due to militia takeover, which prevented them from continuing their work in the region. Despite these challenges, Savannah has maintained its mission by creating partnerships with tech organizations in neighboring countries such as Egypt, Kenya, and Uganda, aimed at supporting Sudanese refugees in developing their tech businesses. By offering training and connection to global capital, Savannah seeks to help rebuild the tech ecosystem that has been fractured by conflict, focusing on the skills and resources necessary for Sudanese entrepreneurs to thrive.
Addressing Waste Through 3D Printing
The issue of abandoned fishing nets has gained attention due to their environmental impact and the potential for recycling into valuable materials through innovative technologies. One company, Fishy Filaments, is transforming discarded nets into raw materials suitable for 3D printing, thereby alleviating both waste and the production of new plastics. By devising a mechanical recycling process, they manage to break down nets into small, reusable fragments that can be converted into products such as car components and sunglasses. This initiative not only tackles the waste problem but also offers economic opportunities for fishing communities, turning waste into tradable commodities rather than a costly burden.
Revolutionizing Wind Detection in Sports
New technology has been developed to visualize wind patterns in real-time, enhancing viewers' understanding of sailing competitions like the America's Cup. By utilizing LIDAR sensors placed strategically around the racecourse, the system generates a detailed wind field map that displays varying wind speeds and directions, assisting audiences in grasping the intricacies of the race. This innovation allows for a 'ghost boat' feature, simulating optimal routes based on current wind conditions, which enhances the viewing experience. The technology also has broader applications beyond sports, including potential uses in managing forest fires and other environmental challenges.
We get a first-hand insight into how the war in Sudan has affected tech workers and companies there.
Also on Tech Life:
Old unwanted fishing nets are a real issue, for marine life and us here on dry land. One man has come up with a way of turning an environmental problem into useful 3D printed products.
And, we can see the sea. We can see the sky. But wouldn't it be great if we could see the wind as well? Well now we can!
Presenter: Graham Fraser
Producer: Tom Quinn
(Photo: Smoke plumes billow from a fire at a lumber warehouse in southern Khartoum, Sudan, amidst ongoing fighting on June 7, 2023. Credit: AFP via Getty Images)
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