Horizon scan on AI and conservation published / Dec 2024
Back in July 2024, a large group of conservation and computer scientists got together in the CCI to prioritise the storm of AI-related projects that have been kicking off around the world. Our key goal was to harness AI to accelerate the positive impact of conservation efforts, while minimising harm caused through either the direct or indirect use of AI technologies.
The first horizon scan resulting from this has just been published in Trends in Ecology and Evolution. If you're looking for a gentle introduction to some of the terms in AI from a non-experts perspective, the first section does a good job of defining a glossary as well. The panel identified 21 key ideas ranging from species recognition for uncovering 'dark diversity' to multimodal models for improving biodiversity loss predictions, monitoring wildlife trade, and addressing human-wildlife conflict. Importantly, we also considered the potential negative impacts of AI adoption, including AI colonialism and the loss of essential conservation skills. The scan provides guidance on how the conservation field can adapt to harness AI's benefits while mitigating its risks.
