How AI can help the environment

In 2023, there are two hotly debated topics that, as a rule, do not usually come together, one of them being climate and environmental situation of the planet and, the other, the emergence and advances in Artificial Intelligence. Although these may seem like distant topics, there is a perspective that is worth studying: How can new AI technologies help the environment?

To begin with, it is important to analyze and understand where artificial intelligence could act. One PwC research of the United Kingdom, commissioned by Microsoft, modeled the economic impact that artificial intelligence could have on four sectors of activity, namely agriculture, energy, water And transport. According to the consultant, the use of AI in these sectors could represent, by 2030, a contribution of 5.2 trillion dollars for the global economy.

In agriculture, artificial intelligence can be very useful in several aspects, but especially in precision agriculture, a modern technique used to improve the production process, also making it more sustainable and, the use of artificial intelligence, helps farmers detect pests, diseases and malnutrition in their crops. With this, the agricultural sector can make a healthier land management and at the same time, use less and less pesticides, which pollute our planet.

As for the energy, AI can be a valuable aid in managing this resource, contributing to improving energy efficiency in several areas. The technology can be used to analyze data, make adjustments to energy consumption, detect anomalies, automate processes and optimize energy production, which proves to be beneficial for both users and the environment. On the other hand, at a point that is interconnected with the issue of transport, artificial intelligence can also be used, for example, to optimize routes and contribute to reduced fuel consumption, which is consequently positive for the atmosphere. 

As for the water, artificial intelligence has already proven to be a useful aid for managing the resource essential to human life. Through algorithms, AI can more efficiently manage supply, as well as detect certain problems, such as leaks. Proof of this is the Indian project EqWater, which, through the use of artificial intelligence, has helped to effectively predict possible future water shortages in certain neighborhoods of Indian megacities.