Researchers in Colorado are using artificial intelligence (AI) to fine-tune crop production in the drought-challenged Colorado River Basin, with the aim of optimizing water resources and improving agricultural practices for long-term sustainability in the region. The project, funded by the US Department of Agriculture, seeks to use AI algorithms to analyze data collected on crops, soil conditions, and weather patterns, enabling farmers to adjust their irrigation practices and achieve better crop yields with less water.
Researchers have used AI-enhanced audio monitoring to determine the level of human activity tolerated by Geoffroy's spider monkeys in Costa Rica, finding that they are not found in areas with less than 80% forest cover and within one kilometer of a paved main road, highlighting the importance of forest protection and conservation strategies.
The carbon footprint of artificial intelligence (AI) is a concern for environmental advocates, as the process of developing and training AI models consumes significant amounts of energy and emits carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change; however, AI also has the potential to be used as a tool to improve sustainability and address environmental challenges such as climate change, water conservation, recycling, and wildfire prevention.
Researchers from the University of Hawaii have developed an AI-based surveying tool that uses deep learning models and high-resolution satellite imagery to monitor coral reef health in real-time, potentially aiding global conservation efforts.
AI-generated foraging guides, including The Forager's Harvest Bible, are flooding online platforms like Amazon, raising concerns within the foraging community about the potential danger these guides pose by providing inaccurate and potentially harmful information; while AI has the potential to assist in plant identification and phenological research, it is crucial to vet sources and ensure credibility in the field of foraging.
Computers using artificial intelligence are being used to detect wildfires in California, providing early warnings and assisting firefighters in combating the blazes.
The Ohio State University is leading a new multimillion-dollar international center called the AI and Biodiversity Change Global Climate Center to use artificial intelligence (AI) to better understand the impacts of climate change on biodiversity. The center aims to develop AI-enabled approaches to study the effects of climate change on various species and ecosystems and will collaborate with universities and organizations worldwide.
New technology powered by artificial intelligence is enabling scientists to decode animal vocalizations, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of animal communication and leading to advancements in conservation, welfare, and our relationship with animals.
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection is using artificial intelligence and a network of cameras to detect and respond to wildfires before they spread, with the technology successfully identifying fires before they were reported 40% of the time.
A team of researchers from various universities is using AI models to analyze data and understand the impact of the climate crisis on biodiversity, with the aim of developing solutions for conservation and climate education.
Artificial intelligence-enabled cameras, such as the TrailGuard system, are being used to help conservationists protect tigers and other wildlife by distinguishing between species and transmitting images to park rangers or villagers within seconds, leading to a decrease in false alarms and increased efficiency in wildlife surveillance.
Machine learning has the potential to aid climate action by providing insights and optimizing sustainability efforts, but researchers must address challenges related to data, computing resources, and the environmental impact of AI.
Researchers propose a synergy between AI and ecology, with the belief that ecology can inspire resilient AI and AI can address global ecological challenges, bridging the gap between the two disciplines.
Researchers have developed an automated system using artificial intelligence that can identify bird species by their calls, potentially revolutionizing the way biodiversity is measured in rainforests and aiding in the monitoring of reforestation projects.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is being increasingly used to monitor biodiversity and aid in the protection of endangered species by analyzing large amounts of data quickly and effectively. AI tools can identify animal species from audio recordings and camera footage, as well as model the impacts of human activities on ecosystems and reconstruct historical changes to understand biodiversity loss. AI has the potential to accelerate important discoveries in protecting endangered species, but environmental impact assessments should be considered in AI risk management.