How AI is reshaping wildlife conservation — for better or worse
1 min read
Summary
The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in scientific research, including in wildlife conservation, is the subject of growing debate due to its alleged shortcomings.
AI’s ability to analyse large datasets holds the potential to streamline lengthy research; however, its environmental impact, potential bias and lack of uniform ethical standards could limit its effectiveness.
Training AI models can consume large amounts of electricity and water, therefore having a negative impact on the environment and wildlife it is trying to protect.
There are also concerns that AI generates a large environmental footprint in data centres and that the overall benefits of using AI in research may be limited.
Questions also remain as to whether AI can overcome issues of bias,encoder models and wield a positive influence on wildlife conservation overall.