5 days ago
- Business
- North Wales Chronicle
Anglesey environmental start-up marks first year in business
Ecodetect, based at M-SParc in Gaerwen, Anglesey, develops AI-powered wildlife detection systems to support marine renewable energy projects.
The company was founded by Dr David Gold, a former geologist and oil and gas professional.
Originally from Hertford and now living in Denbighshire, Dr Gold spent a decade in the oil and gas sector before moving into the renewables industry.
Founder Dr David Gold (Image: Supplied)
Dr Gold said: "Starting Ecodetect was a leap, but the right one.
"It came at a pivotal moment in my life – the birth of my son – and what we are doing here isn't just for business; it's for his future, and for future generations."
He said: "There was a real gap in the market, and I kept hearing the same frustrations from people in the sector, that data collection and analysis was slow and costly and delaying vital projects.
"That's where Ecodetect comes in."
In its first year, Ecodetect has earned several accolades, including North Wales Start-Up of the Year.
The company's technology was also featured in the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's OES-Environmental State of the Science report.
Dr Gold said: "The response has been phenomenal, we've built a fantastic team, kicked off major projects in floating offshore wind and marine ecosystems, and begun assembling what I believe is the future of sub-aquatic monitoring."
Ecodetect's system combines underwater video cameras with AI-driven recognition software to identify marine organisms—from whales and birds to plankton and plant life—in a matter of minutes.
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The company plans to expand across the UK and internationally while supporting Wales's green economy by collaborating with institutions such as Bangor University and We Mind The Gap to train and retain local talent.
Dr Gold said: "Laying down roots in Wales has been one of the best decisions of my life.
"This region is thriving, and we're proud to be part of its clean energy future."
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