Evan Budz, a 15-year-old prodigy from Ontario, has crafted a remarkable innovation in the realm of environmental monitoring: the Bionic Underwater Robotic Turtle (BURT). This ingenious device, inspired by the graceful movements of snapping turtles, offers a quieter, more sustainable approach to studying underwater ecosystems. With a detection accuracy of 96% in identifying coral bleaching, invasive species, and plastic waste, BURT is poised to revolutionize the field.
What makes BURT truly remarkable is its biomimetic design. By emulating the swimming kinematics of turtles, the robot minimizes disruption in sensitive habitats, a critical factor in coral reefs, lakes, and shallow freshwater systems. This approach is akin to walking quietly into a forest, ensuring minimal impact on the environment.
The core of BURT's intelligence lies in its AI-powered imaging system. Utilizing a Raspberry Pi microcomputer and a front-mounted camera, the robot can detect ecological stress indicators such as coral bleaching. The training process, conducted in a backyard pool, showcases the adaptability of the robot, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
BURT's specifications are impressive. Weighing around 11 pounds, it can operate for up to eight hours on a lithium battery, and its solar panel extension further enhances its sustainability. The robot's speed, approximately 0.5 miles per hour, mirrors the natural swimming pace of turtles, emphasizing the importance of steady observation in conservation efforts.
One of the most compelling aspects of BURT is its accessibility. Budz utilized off-the-shelf components and affordable materials, challenging the notion that groundbreaking environmental technology must originate from multimillion-dollar labs. This democratization of innovation is a significant step forward.
The project's evolution has been remarkable. Initially focused on coral bleaching detection, BURT has expanded its capabilities to include microplastics detection using a 3D holographic camera system. This expansion addresses the urgent need to track tiny, widespread particles that significantly impact water quality, marine life, and human health.
BURT's success has been widely recognized. It secured the $50,000 Gordon E. Moore Award for Positive Outcomes for Future Generations at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in 2026. Additionally, it won first prize at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists in Latvia in 2025 and has garnered attention through Canada's national STEM fair network.
However, the journey ahead is challenging. Real-world testing in diverse aquatic environments, with their currents, debris, and unpredictable conditions, will be crucial. Despite this, BURT represents a promising glimpse into the future of low-impact environmental monitoring, offering a smarter, quieter approach inspired by nature's wisdom.
