CO2ntrol
Lennard Feger
CO₂ntrol is a beginner-friendly, low-cost analog solution designed to provide early warnings of elevated CO₂ levels in forests, offering a proactive approach to wildfire detection. Wildfires, exacerbated by climate change, are a growing threat to ecosystems, and early detection systems are vital for minimizing damage. Traditional methods, like satellite imaging and IoT-based monitoring, are often expensive and complex, making them inaccessible in remote or resource-limited areas. CO₂ntrol addresses this gap by leveraging real-time CO₂ monitoring, as CO₂ levels rise early in the combustion process, often preceding visible smoke.
The system integrates a CO₂ sensor with a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) to produce a loud alarm when dangerous CO₂ thresholds are exceeded, ensuring functionality even in areas lacking internet or mobile connectivity. Inspired by modular synthesizers, the prototype simplifies technology use and lowers barriers to entry, enabling non-experts like forest workers and local communities to engage in wildfire prevention.
CO₂ntrol's development emphasized simplicity and reliability, avoiding complex microcontrollers. Key challenges included troubleshooting circuit components and optimizing sensor-VCO integration. Initial testing validated the system's ability to detect elevated CO₂ levels and trigger alarms, although further refinements like high-pass filtering and weatherproofing are needed for real-world deployment.
The project underscores the importance of accessible, user-friendly environmental monitoring tools in addressing climate challenges. By combining practicality with educational opportunities, CO₂ntrol not only aids in wildfire prevention but also inspires broader participation in technology and environmental conservation.