Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to become a linchpin in climate-resilient and low-emission development, marking a groundbreaking stride towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The United Nations Climate Change’s Initiative on Artificial Intelligence for Climate Action, known as #AI4ClimateAction, is at the forefront of exploring the potential of AI as a formidable tool for advancing transformative climate action, particularly in developing countries.
The #AI4ClimateAction Initiative aligns with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ call for the development of “reliable and safe” AI to propel climate action towards SDG targets. By combining policy and implementation strategies under the first joint work program of UN Climate Change’s Technology Mechanism, the initiative aims to deliver concrete and transformative results.
Several AI-powered solutions for climate action in developing countries, including Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), are already in progress. Innovative adaptation technologies, such as AI-powered models, are providing early warning systems to alert communities about impending disasters.
In Southern Africa, the Biosphere Reserves as Observatories for Climate Change Adaptation (Be-Resilient) project utilizes AI to predict flooding patterns in Mozambique, enhancing preparedness and response measures. AI’s application extends to optimizing agri-food systems and crop management, predicting planting times, assessing soil health, and monitoring pest and disease outbreaks. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in East Africa leverages AI to enhance impact-based forecasting in agriculture sectors, crucial for food security and economic development.
Clean Energy Transition
Renewable energy systems are also benefiting from AI algorithms, improving efficiency and reliability by predicting energy demand, optimizing grid operations, and seamlessly integrating renewable energy sources. The Global Renewables Watch, employing AI and satellite imagery, maps utility-scale solar and wind installations, enabling users to evaluate clean energy transition progress and track trends over time.
The UN Climate Change Technology Executive Committee (TEC) is set to host a high-level event on AI for climate action at COP28, collaborating with the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) and the incoming COP Presidency. Additionally, the TEC, in partnership with Enterprise Neurosystem, will launch the AI Innovation Grand Challenge, a competition to drive new AI applications for climate mitigation and adaptation in developing countries.
The recent launch of the UN-led AI Advisory Body underscores a global trend harnessing machine learning to address common challenges. As AI-driven technologies continue to evolve, their potential to assist communities, corporations, and policymakers in tackling climate change becomes increasingly evident. The integration of AI into climate-related initiatives holds the promise of revolutionizing early warning systems, disaster response, urban planning, and sustainable practices across various industries, ultimately contributing to a greener, cleaner, and fairer planet. Ahead of COP28, the spotlight on AI’s role in climate action illuminates a path toward achieving global ambitions outlined in the 2030 Agenda and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
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