Huawei BCIW: Saving the Rainforest by Listening

The Challenge:

Deep in the rainforest, illegal logging often happens faster than anyone can respond. Topher White, founder and CEO of Rainforest Connection (RFCx), set out to change that by transforming old smartphones into listening devices that detect the sounds of chainsaws in real time. His mission: to give the rainforest a voice. After seeing Topher’s inspiring TED Talk, Huawei wanted to find a meaningful way to support his cause and explore how technology could make an even greater impact.

The Solution:

What began as a simple conversation became a powerful collaboration. Many of the upcycled phones RFCx used were Huawei devices, valued for their durability and endurance in the world’s toughest environments. Building on this connection, Huawei partnered with RFCx to create a connected, intelligent ecosystem across multiple rainforests.

To share their story, we produced a short film showcasing how technology and human ingenuity unite to protect the planet’s most precious forests for generations to come.

Role: Creative Director
Agency: Ogilvy
Team: Copywriter – Lee Davies, Production - Chronicles