VisionNest : Trapping the Asian hornet

This initiative aims to curb the proliferation of Asian hornets in France through a collective, strategic and technological approach. Present in over 90% of France, the dreaded vespa velutina continues to destroy honey bees on a massive scale. It causes financial losses estimated at 12 million euros a year.

VisionNest contains a selective trap inspired by the biomimicry of the primary nests built by Asian hornet queens. It is also equipped with a sensor based on the frequency of the insects' buzzing.

With its mobile application offering real-time mapping, it mobilizes an active community (individuals, beekeepers, farmers, beekeeping veterinarians) in the fight against this invasive species.

« This robust and sustainable project stands out because of its adherence to low-tech principles and maker culture: an approach that's both technological and accessible. Axel Giboulot's approach is based on participatory sciences, where close collaboration between stakeholders enables effective management in the fight against Asian hornets and improved crop pollination. Based on accurate data, VisionNest aims to optimize Asian hornet management and target measures to control them based on the statistics gathered.» Arnaud Le Roi, Course Leader - Master’s in Digital Design