Technology
Wild Defender AI: young people and technology protecting crops
On 3 and 4 September 2026, RCR Innovative Labs will involve young people aged 14 to 24 in creating an intelligent, sustainable and non-lethal system to protect cultivated land from wildlife.
When a real challenge in the local area meets the creativity of young people, technology becomes a tool for building useful solutions. This is the idea behind Wild Defender AI, a free event organised by RCR Innovative Labs ETS APS on 3 and 4 September 2026 in Quadrivio di Campagna, in the province of Salerno.
The project addresses a major concern in agricultural areas: wild boars and other wildlife entering cultivated land. Participants aged 14 to 24 will not simply watch a demonstration. They will help design and build an intelligent prototype that detects animals and activates non-lethal deterrent systems.
The first day will focus on programming, electronics, motion sensors, ESP32 microcontrollers, RGB lights, sound signals and voice messages. Participants will learn how data can be collected, events processed and actuators coordinated, while exploring the potential of artificial intelligence and remote monitoring.
The second day will be devoted to assembly, testing and field trials. Working as a development team, participants will analyse errors, improve the prototype and consider effectiveness, safety, energy consumption and environmental responsibility.
Wild Defender AI brings together digital education, crop protection and biodiversity. It shows young people that coding is not abstract: it can help communities tackle real problems with responsibility, creativity and shared skills.
The event is part of Meet and Code 2026. Meet and Code sponsors the initiative together with Amazon and Base44; SocialTechno Impresa Sociale Srl is the programme partner in Italy. Participation is completely free.