Solar-powered sea drone developed in the Canaries to detect plastics and pollution in real time
Scientists in the Canary Islands have unveiled a pioneering solar-powered drone capable of detecting marine pollution such as oil spills, plastic waste, and water quality changes in real time.
The innovation is the result of Project PERSEO (Autonomous Solar Aerial Platform for Monitoring Marine Pollution Events), led by Tenerife’s Institute of Technology and Renewable Energies (ITER) with support from the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the Canary Islands Oceanic Platform (PLOCAN), and the specialist company Elittoral.
Equipped with multispectral sensors and advanced artificial intelligence, the drone has achieved more than 92% accuracy in spotting pollutants. It can also integrate data from satellites, oceanographic models, and coastal sensor networks, creating a comprehensive early warning system for environmental managers.
The Tenerife Cabildo has highlighted the project’s importance for safeguarding fragile island ecosystems, especially as climate change increases pressure on coastal waters. An open-access data platform has also been launched, allowing researchers, public institutions, and citizens to use the findings.
Funded by Spain’s Ministry of Science and Innovation, PERSEO ran from 2022 to 2025 and is already being considered for use in future environmental monitoring programmes in the Canaries and other Atlantic archipelagos.
Juan José Martínez, Tenerife’s Councillor for Innovation, said: “By linking science with sustainable development, we are positioning the Canary Islands at the forefront of environmental protection. PERSEO helps us prepare better for the challenges ahead with modern tools that can anticipate future problems.”
The project’s final results were presented on 25th September at ITER’s headquarters in Tenerife, marking the conclusion of what officials described as a “pioneering success” in using solar energy, AI, and drones to protect marine life.
Why it matters:
- Cleaner seas: Helps detect plastics and spills early, protecting swimming and diving areas.
- Marine life protection: Safeguards dolphins, turtles, and other species popular with eco-tourism.
- Better beaches: Early intervention means less pollution reaching the shoreline.
- Climate resilience: Strengthens the Canaries’ reputation as a leader in sustainable innovation.
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