Open Source

Transparent, community-driven technology for environmental protection

Our Approach

Why open source?

BuzzCopper is built on the principle that environmental monitoring technology should be accessible to everyone. We believe that open-source development accelerates innovation, builds trust, and empowers communities to take action against invasive species.

BuzzCopper is being released in stages. Hardware designs are shared first, while the firmware repository will be published once sensitive secrets and operational details are properly protected.

Everything Is Shared

What we open source

Hardware Designs

Plastic frame design files and PCB schematics are shared under an open hardware licence. Build your own device using locally available components and a PET drinks bottle enclosure.

Firmware & Software

Firmware publication is planned, but not live yet while secrets are secured.

AI Model & Data

The insect classification model and selected anonymised training datasets will be shared to support validation and collaborative model improvement.

Official Reporting

Report Asian Hornet sightings

Please use the official reporting channels below so sightings are routed correctly to the National Bee Unit response network.

Get Involved

How to contribute

Whether you're a developer, engineer, beekeeper, or simply passionate about protecting pollinators, there are many ways to get involved with BuzzCopper.

1

Explore the Code

Browse our GitHub repositories and documentation. Familiarise yourself with the firmware, hardware designs, and AI model architecture.

2

Build a Device

Follow our build guides to assemble your own BuzzCopper using 3D-printed parts and off-the-shelf electronics. All component lists and instructions are provided.

3

Test in the Field

Deploy a device and share your detection data to help improve the AI model. Field data from diverse locations and conditions is invaluable for training accuracy.

4

Report Issues & Ideas

Found a bug or have an idea for improvement? Open an issue on GitHub. Community feedback directly shapes the development roadmap.

5

Spread the Word

Share BuzzCopper with your beekeeping association, local wildlife group, or social network. The wider the community, the stronger the detection network.

Join the community protecting pollinators through open technology