Iknaia has announced a revolutionary collaboration with Ocean Scientific International Ltd (OSIL) and UnifAI Technology to deliver real-time monitoring of bathing water conditions at Bournemouth and Boscombe beaches. Funded by BCP Council Smart Place (Funded by Government through the Towns Fund) and Wessex Water, this innovative project will set a new standard in environmental monitoring and public health protection.
The consortium is deploying two state-of-the-art water quality monitoring buoys, commissioned by Iknaia and engineered by OSIL. These advanced buoys are equipped with multiple sensor arrays capable of detecting a wide range of pollutants, including E. coli. This initiative marks a significant leap forward in safeguarding our coastal waters.
The real-time data collected by the buoys will be integrated into the UnifAI Technology platform. Over time, UnifAI Technology’s advanced AI capabilities will provide predictive water quality information and generate risk indicators for harmful bacteria, ensuring year-round safety for beachgoers. In addition to water quality metrics, the system will also analyse air quality, wind, and weather data through the Iknaia platform.
BCP Council will make this comprehensive data publicly accessible via the SeaCheck WebApp. This will empower residents, visitors, and local businesses to make informed decisions about beach visits and water activities, enhancing both safety and enjoyment.
Julia McNally, Founder of Iknaia, commented: “Our state-of-the-art water quality monitoring buoys are invaluable tools in ensuring the safety and health of bathing waters. They provide real-time, accurate data that is crucial for protecting public health, managing environmental quality, and ensuring regulatory compliance.”
Data from the buoys and Airscan air quality monitors will be transmitted using an existing LoRaWAN network installed by BCP Smart Place, demonstrating a seamless integration of cutting-edge technology and infrastructure.
