Environmental Business Review : News

Geneva, Drovid, a Chilean company in the ICT sector, has been named one of the 11 winners of the 2026 WIPO Global Awards, organized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The WIPO Global Awards recognize startups and SMEs that use intellectual property strategically to grow their business, reach new markets, and attract partners and investment. Winners were assessed on the strength of their business case and IP portfolio, their IP commercialization strategy, their internal IP culture, and their contribution to addressing societal challenges. Drovid's approach in ICT has enabled the company to build a validated, globally protected solution: an operational pilot covering 2,500 hectares with a formalized purchase agreement, a PCT patent filed in 43 countries, a trademark registered in 58 markets, and over US$600,000 raised in equity-free public funding. The company has represented Chile at APEC 2025 and was present at COP28 in Dubai, and was recognized as 'Advanced Forest Protection System of the Year in Europe 2025' by Environmental Business Review. "Winning the WIPO Global Award 2026 is international validation that our technology and intellectual property strategy are on the right track. This recognition motivates us to continue scaling up smart forest protection to the world's most vulnerable markets" -- Cristian León, Founder & CEO, Drovid Winners receive a dedicated two-day IP and business workshop in Geneva, a six-month 1:1 mentoring package, and recognition at the official ceremony before delegates from 194 countries. They also join the Global Awards Alumni Community, with access to a curated network of investors, accelerators, corporates and service providers, regular expert talks, and visibility opportunities throughout the year. “WIPO Global Award winning companies show how strategic use of intellectual property can promote better business results: more visibility for stronger valuations, stronger basis for new partnerships, important protection in new markets. We are proud to celebrate WGA winners today, and even more eager to support them as they continue their journey. For us, this ceremony is not the finish line. It is the starting point." The eleven winners were announced at the official WIPO Global Awards Ceremony on Friday, 10 July 2026 , held during the WIPO Assemblies in Geneva, Switzerland. ...Read more

Technology has become indispensable for enhancing the accuracy, efficiency, and sustainability of environmental consulting. As ecological challenges grow more complex—from climate change and pollution to resource management and regulatory compliance—consultants are turning to advanced technologies to analyze data, assess risks, and recommend actionable strategies. These digital solutions transform the way consultants engage with natural environments, offering vital insights to support both ecological preservation and economic development. Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems Remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are at the forefront of environmental data collection and analysis. These technologies enable consultants to monitor landscapes, vegetation patterns, and water resources remotely, often using satellite imagery or drone-mounted sensors. By combining remotely sensed data with GIS mapping, consultants can produce detailed visualizations of ecosystems, track changes over time, and model the potential environmental impacts of proposed developments. This spatial data is essential for habitat assessments, land use planning, and environmental impact studies, allowing for more informed decision-making based on real-world observations. Real-Time Monitoring and Data Collection Tools Environmental consulting increasingly relies on real-time monitoring systems to gather continuous data on air quality, water conditions, soil contamination, and other environmental factors. These systems often include sensor networks deployed in the field, which automatically transmit data to centralized platforms for analysis. Using Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, consultants can detect environmental changes as they happen, enabling early intervention and faster response to potential threats. For example, water sensors can alert teams to chemical spills or changes in pH levels, while air monitors can track particulate matter in urban or industrial areas. This constant flow of information supports more proactive environmental management strategies. Modeling Software and Predictive Analytics Advanced modeling software and predictive analytics tools allow environmental consultants to simulate various scenarios and forecast potential outcomes. Whether evaluating the impact of a construction project on a nearby wetland or assessing long-term climate risks to a coastal region, these tools help predict changes and guide mitigation efforts. Using machine learning and artificial intelligence enhances the ability to identify patterns in large data sets, offering deeper insights and improving the accuracy of environmental forecasts. These technologies also aid in regulatory compliance, helping organizations anticipate and meet ecological standards more efficiently. Integrating technology into environmental consulting improves the quality and speed of assessments and promotes greater transparency and collaboration. Digital platforms allow stakeholders—clients, regulators, and the public—to access environmental data, review project outcomes, and participate in sustainable planning. As environmental concerns continue to grow, the role of technology will only become more critical, empowering consultants to protect natural resources, support responsible development, and build a more sustainable future for all. ...Read more

Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) play a vital role in identifying potential environmental hazards and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards during property transactions. As global concern for environmental protection continues to grow, thorough site assessments have become indispensable in real estate, construction, and land development projects. An ESA typically involves an in-depth evaluation of a property's environmental condition, uncovering risks and liabilities that may impact human health and surrounding ecosystems. Beyond risk mitigation, ESAs also support long-term sustainability, financial prudence, and ongoing adherence to environmental regulations—making them a strategic asset for responsible development. An Environmental Site Assessment can identify environmental hazards and liabilities, including site contamination from hazardous materials that contaminate soil or water or present air contamination. For a business or property developer, this process will help them make better decisions on properties to acquire or develop, avoid costly remediation projects, and ensure health and safety. Indeed, an unwitting investment of money in purchasing land must be knowledgeable about the environmental condition of a property to avoid costly issues. They save businesses from potential legal and financial liabilities if property holders face fines, lawsuits, and remediation costs due to contaminants on their premises. Protecting human health and safety, ESAs frequently precede property acquisitions with financing to prevent illegal and non-environmentally friendly investments, ensuring that businesses are financially sound and demonstrate diligence to stakeholders. An environmental site assessment may also encourage sustainable land development practices since environmental regulation is tightening and society is becoming more conscious. Companies willing to invest in environmentally conscious practices will have a much better chance of meeting those regulations. An ESA might identify opportunities for sustainable land use, lessen the environmental risks of a transaction, and contribute to revitalizing contaminated or underutilized land. These environmental site assessments hold crucial importance during a property transaction. Since one would gain a clearer idea of the property's value, buyers would have all the leverage to negotiate terms and set their prices accordingly. ESAs help ensure buyers are aware of hidden costs or regulatory hurdles. The opportunity for the seller to show transparency and due diligence can, at some point, raise the price to sell the property. In that respect, ESAs are essential for making educated decisions regarding properties. ESAs also contribute to protecting the community's natural and public health. They help identify environmental hazards, including ensuring that they are either handled or remediated appropriately, to safeguard ecosystems at the local level and minimize pollution risks. This could lead to better air quality, water quality, biodiversity, and a healthier community environment. The ESA would also benefit businesses but serve broader social goals regarding public health and environmental justice. ...Read more