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How AI is making it easier for scientists to understand climate change

How AI is making it easier for scientists to understand climate change Photo by Mathew Waters on Unsplash

Climate change is a serious issue which needs immediate global attention. This is so because the planet continues to warm and the impacts it creates are worsening each day. There is compelling evidence which points out that there is a bleak future characterized by the rise in global temperatures, shrinking glaciers, rising sea level, warming ocean and other extreme events. Researchers have however been trying their best to address these issues by proposing various potential solutions. However they have not succeeded in averting the looming crisis.

Despite the challenges of attempting to find a solution to climate change and its associated problems, there are reasons to believe that the new revolution powered by artificial intelligence will present an opportunity to solve this problem. Here are ways in which AI can make it easy to understand climate change

Collection, analysis and interpretation of data

Scientists have for many years relied on computers to store massive amounts of data regarding climate change. However, most of this data has gone unutilized due to lack of advanced processing capacities. The availability of AI-powered sensors placed by scientists all over the world however is about to revolutionize collection of data. Scientists will now be able to use AI’s deep learning algorithms and techniques to collect, analyze and interpret data into meaningful information which can be used to make crucial decisions regarding conservation.

Prediction of uncertain future

Augmented intelligence allows scientists to gather information, create patterns and understand them. Through these patterns and models, they can predict uncertain future events by coming up with interactive climate simulators which help them understand and establish connections on climate. Furthermore, artificial intelligence based on historical input helps the scientists to detect climate and weather patterns. Through statistics, data mining and machine learning, weather changes can be forecasted through what is known as “climate informatics” so that countermeasures can be developed.

Making observation after extreme climatic conditions

According to Microsoft, artificial intelligence is a “game changer” in the prediction of extreme weather conditions.  Through AI-powered advanced imaging and remote sensing, researchers can survey a large geographical location and make ground observation easy. Furthermore, AI can be used to mine data by identifying, distinguishing and classifying high-resolution images which can then be used to draw a conclusion regarding the extent to which extreme conditions have affected a specific area.

Study of the ocean and coral reefs

For ages, coral reefs have helped in the absorption of elements in the oceans resulting in the reduction of erosion in the coastline. In addition, corals aid in the reduction of damage caused by tsunamis, hurricanes and tropical storms. There is however a threat to the ocean ecosystem which is largely as a result of global warming and climate change. Through artificial intelligence, researchers are gaining an understanding of the types of coral reefs which have a better rate of survival across the ocean and are finding ways of transferring it to other areas. Technology can also be deployed to conserve this kind of coral reef.

Generally, artificial intelligence leads the way in predicting events; both seasonal and long-term, studying trends and warning people of extreme events which might take place in the future. Through AI, deep learning and modeling approaches, scientists will strongly benefit and so will everyone else.

Reference

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/02/190214115551.htm

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Scott Koegler

Scott Koegler is Executive Editor for PMG360. He is a technology writer and editor with 20+ years experience delivering high value content to readers and publishers. 

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