An Update from IBM: Climate Change and Geospatial AI
IBM today revealed significant advancements in its geospatial AI technologies at COP28, focusing on combatting climate change. Partnering with the Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), the Government of Kenya, and the UK’s Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) Hartree Centre, IBM aims to address urban heat islands, reforestation, and climate resiliency in aviation.
IBM’s collaboration with MBZUAI targets urban heat islands in Abu Dhabi, using geospatial AI models to map and mitigate excessive heat. This research has already achieved a reduction in heat island effects by over 3°C. “Our work with IBM is pivotal in using AI to address urban heat challenges, shaping sustainable solutions for the future,” said Professor Tim Baldwin, Acting Provost at MBZUAI.
In Kenya, IBM supports the National Tree Growing and Restoration Campaign, an initiative to plant 15 billion trees by 2032. IBM’s geospatial AI models will track and visualise tree planting efforts, aiding reforestation and water sustainability. “This partnership harnesses AI to advance our climate goals and improve resource management,” commented Hussein Mohamed, President’s Spokesperson.
In the UK, IBM and STFC’s Hartree Centre are developing a service to automate climate risk assessments for aviation, addressing both short-term and long-term weather impacts. Additionally, IBM’s AI technologies are aiding the TreesAI project to map urban tree planting locations, reducing flood risks. “Advanced AI technologies are crucial for building climate resilience,” said Kate Royse, Director at STFC Hartree Centre.
IBM is also extending its collaboration with NASA to create a new AI foundation model for weather and climate, enhancing forecasting accuracy and affordability. These initiatives underscore IBM’s commitment to leveraging AI for a sustainable and resilient future.
This story is inspired by an IBM Newsroom article.
