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The negative impacts on nature caused by humans are still a concern due to the lack of awareness and environmental education in part of the global population. In this grim context, Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerges as a powerful tool that, if applied responsibly, can change this uncertain scenario. Read more.

The sustainability of the environment is a topic of utmost importance on the global agenda for the future of the Earth. Can Artificial Intelligence resolve the existing impasses?

The adoption of AI on a larger scale has become one of the most important alternatives to solving many of the planet's environmental problems that are not being addressed in a shorter time-frame due to high costs and other factors. If implemented gradually, supported by strict international laws, it will undoubtedly herald a promising era of human evolution.

On a micro level, AI already operates through a set of applications known as "green technology." On a macro level, AI can be summarized in 10 relevant applications (so far) that can ensure a sustainable and secure future for Earth:

1 - Monitoring and Conservation of Biodiversity

Artificial Intelligence can analyze a wide range of data with broad coverage in real-time, using satellite images, surveillance cameras, and sound records, and evaluating the most vulnerable ecosystems.

2 - Prediction and Mitigation of Natural Disasters 

Hurricanes, floods, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes can be predicted with greater accuracy and anticipation than currently possible. Identifying high-risk areas on time allows for the immediate implementation of preventive measures. AI can analyze local data, including climate information, geological data, wind patterns, clouds, and historical occurrences, collected through satellites, drones, advanced sensor platforms, and other devices with green electronics and technology resources.

3 - Optimization of Natural Resources 

Through programmed algorithms to better control resource exploitation, AI would analyze data on the consumption and production of the planet's natural resources to identify levels of waste and their side effects, particularly in agriculture, industry, and transportation. AI can also monitor the global situation in terms of conscious consumption and its impact on the circular economy.

4 - Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture 

As intensive agriculture contributes to soil degradation due to the excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers, AI can promote sustainable or regenerative agriculture by diversifying more environmentally friendly alternatives that increase productivity without significantly affecting the environment. AI, in addition to real-time climate and soil analysis, monitors crop growth, predicting the emergence of pests and diseases, while respecting local practices and regulations.. 

5 - Intelligent Application of Clean Energy 

The transition to clean energy sources is the natural strategy for the coming years, gradually replacing fossil fuels. AI identifies areas with high energy consumption and suggests available and feasible alternatives in the short term, also considering the impact on the local economy. For example, in managing power grids, AI provides data to balance energy demand and supply, especially in the case of intermittent sources like solar and wind.

6 - Responsible Use of Water 

AI can assist scientists in projecting the ideal use of water in a specific geographic area, considering meteorological forecasts, to make political and social decisions in the face of imminent floods or droughts. This control extends to water bodies, and oceans, detecting floods, and tsunamis, and extending to groundwater control.

7 - Regulating Breathable Air in Various Regions 

Large air purifiers equipped with AI can record air quality and environmental data in real time in regions with higher pollution levels, requiring more efficient filtering. This resource allows the population to be aware of the air quality they breathe, thus avoiding respiratory diseases.

8 - Controlling Deforestation 

Deforestation originates from various causes, including criminal activities and natural processes. Trees and other animal species are significant victims of intentional or unintentional fires. Organizations like Rainforest Connection have installed acoustic monitoring sensors on trees that "listen" to the forest around them. Any strange sound triggers the central system, taking appropriate measures to prevent the problem.

9 - Fighting Illegal Hunting 

Among the problems generated by illegal hunting is the risk of extinction of rare and endangered species a South African company, Rouxcel Technology, developed an AI-controlled bracelet. The device is placed on the ankles of the most endangered animals to monitor various aspects such as animal behavior, habitat, and their most used routes. When in danger, the bracelet emits signals detected by the central system, leading to action against illegal hunters.

10 - Smart and Connected Cities Urban 

Urban planning in partnership with AI can be simulated to generate data that serve as parameters for the application, for example, in fairer zoning laws, building ordinances, and flood plains, on a virtual dashboard that simulates local reality. AI can be simulated to generate data that serve as parameters for the application, for example, in fairer zoning laws, construction decrees, and flood plains, on a virtual panel simulating the local reality. It will also generate real-time data on energy consumption, water usage, traffic flows, people flows, and local climate. Aligned with the principles of sustainable intelligence, AI will be programmed according to local urban requirements

Conclusion