The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has captured significant attention recently, with tools like ChatGPT generating excitement. While concerns about potential drawbacks and misuse persist, AI has also emerged as a powerful tool to address global crises, including climate change.
The exact impact of this rapidly advancing technology in reducing emissions, a critical step to prevent catastrophic global heating, is challenging to quantify. However, a study commissioned by tech giant Microsoft estimated that AI applications in agriculture, water, energy, and transport sectors could lead to a 4% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. This reduction is equivalent to the combined annual emissions of Australia, Canada, and Japan.
Although AI holds value as a tool, David Rolnick, assistant professor in the school of computer science at McGill University and co-founder of the nonprofit Climate Change AI, emphasizes that it is not a "silver bullet" and should be considered alongside other classical tools for climate action.
Here are six ways in which AI is being employed to benefit the environment:
Saving trees with AI "guardians": Deforestation and land-use changes contribute to over 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Rainforest Connection, a nonprofit organization, attaches acoustic monitoring sensors called "guardians" to trees, which eavesdrop on the surrounding forest. Machine learning models analyze the collected audio data to identify sounds associated with illegal logging, alerting authorities to take action.
Low-carbon concrete with AI: By utilizing AI, researchers are developing methods to produce low-carbon concrete, a significant contributor to global emissions. AI algorithms assist in optimizing the composition of concrete mixtures, reducing the reliance on cement and lowering carbon dioxide emissions.
Cutting energy waste in buildings: AI-based applications like Neuron use real-time data from energy management systems in buildings to optimize heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. By making data-driven adjustments and predictions, these applications can significantly reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings.
Fighting poaching with algorithms: AI-enabled bracelets fitted around rhinos' ankles help conservation teams monitor their movement and behavior in real time. Machine learning algorithms analyze abnormal movement patterns, enabling prompt intervention in cases of potential poaching threats.
Smart farming: AI systems, leveraging data from sensors monitoring crop microclimates, provide precise recommendations for optimizing plant health, water usage, and fertilizer application. This technology can enhance crop yields while minimizing resource waste and environmental impact.
Enhancing renewable energy utilization: Nonprofit organizations are using AI to improve solar forecasts, enabling power grid operators to manage intermittent solar power generation more effectively. Accurate predictions of cloud coverage allow for better integration of solar energy into the grid, reducing the need for fossil fuel-based backup power reserves.
While AI shows promise in environmental applications, it is crucial to recognize that it is not a standalone solution. Collaboration with traditional approaches is essential for comprehensive and effective climate action. By harnessing the power of AI in conjunction with other tools, we can leverage technology to drive positive change and address pressing environmental challenges.
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Sources
Muller, Natalie, and Neil King. “How AI can help the environment – DW – 04/19/2023.” DW, 19 April 2023, https://www.dw.com/en/how-ai-can-help-the-environment/a-65246457. Accessed 5 June 2023.
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