Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used to automate various aspects of human life. Experts believe that AI will play a crucial role in efforts to mitigate climate change and preserve the environment. AI technology is already being used in everyday life, from facial recognition on smartphones to search algorithms. Its potential lies in its ability to compile, compute, and analyze massive amounts of data in minutes, a task that would have been insurmountable for humans.
The use of AI in environmental conservation will benefit those advocating for environmental change. AI can help humans better understand and comprehend trends, make new discoveries, and expand our knowledge of the universe. This processing power will make it easier for humans to take action on environmental challenges such as global warming and biodiversity loss.
One area where AI can make a significant impact is in detecting permafrost melting in the Arctic. The Arctic has warmed four times faster than the rest of the Earth since 1979, and this melting puts Arctic species, human lives, and the environment at risk. Google has provided a grant of $5 million to the Woodwell Climate Research Center to develop an open-access resource that uses satellite technology and AI to track permafrost thaw in real-time. This tool will provide essential information to residents in the Arctic whose homes may be at risk of collapsing due to melting permafrost. AI technology can map out features beneath the ground, such as ice-wedge polygons, which are crucial in identifying areas of potential danger.
Another way AI can contribute to environmental conservation is by ensuring the world’s food supply. The agricultural industry is susceptible to the impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events, droughts, heatwaves, and plant pathogens. AI can make food production more efficient and reduce its carbon footprint. For example, AI can help farmers determine the optimal placement of fertilizer, preventing underuse or overuse. AI can also estimate the amount of fertilizer needed based on soil and yield maps, allowing farmers to make informed decisions about fertilizer use.
In conclusion, AI has the potential to revolutionize environmental conservation by providing valuable insights, detecting risks, and optimizing resource management. These advancements in AI technology will contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change and preserve biodiversity.