Written by Aminu Mohammed
Many countries around the world are struggling with environmental pollution from air, water, land, and other sources. The increasing population in major cities, along with growing industrial activities, has led to air pollution, endangering public health, causing climate change, and impacting food security. Chemical factories, cement production plants, and other large companies are significant contributors to the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), approximately seven million people die each year as a result of air pollution worldwide.
This is exacerbated by the growing number of vehicles on urban roads in heavily populated cities, with a large population using fuel that emits greenhouse gases. Pollution is caused by the burning of fuel by cars and heavy-duty trucks used in transportation and logistics. These activities have contributed to air pollution and worsening climate conditions. Countries with large populations like India, China, Nigeria, and others continue to face the challenge of air pollution in their major cities due to increasing population and the prevalence of vehicles on the roads.
Pollution can be described as the emission of harmful toxic substances and materials into the environment, which can be extremely harmful to humans, animals, and plants. Polluted air or water endangers the environment. Pollution affects human health, as it can cause asthma, heart attacks, strokes, lung disease, and other chronic airborne diseases. These diseases can damage human organs and even lead to death.
There is no doubt that clean air is a necessity for sustainable living. Thus, tackling air and water pollution can greatly improve human health, sustainable development, and combat climate change.
Artificial Intelligence a necessity for Pollution management
Artificial intelligence is a game changer and can significantly assist in reducing environmental impact and combating climate change. Artificial intelligence systems have been used to detect pollution levels in the air. The adoption of Artificial intelligence and machine learning in predicting weather, monitoring, and identifying sources of pollution is crucial.
Technology, especially sensors, can provide a large amount of data on emissions in a specific area. Similarly, air quality can be effectively monitored by identifying polluted areas in urban areas. The data obtained can help municipal authorities take preventive measures to control pollution and minimize its negative impact on the environment.
Impact of Artificial Intelligence on pollution control
In a bid to ensure the protection of citizens from toxic substances, many cities have implemented artificial intelligence systems to monitor pollution.
Some cities in China have implemented artificial intelligence and machine learning tools to manage air pollution. For example, Beijing, which has been dealing with a large population and increasing number of vehicles, has utilized these technologies along with emission curbing devices to improve air quality. The municipal authorities have installed over 1000 satellite remote sensors across the city to detect the level of emissions in different areas in a timely manner. These measures have significantly reduced emissions and improved air quality, thereby enhancing the life expectancy of the residents.
Barcelona is another city that has used artificial intelligence to improve air quality, public service delivery, and reduce emissions. The city administrators have employed artificial intelligence to promote sustainable cleaner air and decrease emission levels. Additionally, they have introduced an artificial intelligence tool for sustainable mobility, which offers guidance and suggestions on specific green areas with low pollution levels where people can walk or cycle in order to reduce congestion and minimize exposure to pollution. Sensors have also been installed to monitor air quality and pollution levels across the city.
HabitatMap, an environmental and American non-profit startup, has developed the Airbeam air quality sensor. This simple device allows users to monitor air quality, pollution, and weather conditions in their area. With this device, users can access real-time and accurate data on pollution levels and sources. The purpose of this air quality sensor is to provide affordable and accessible technology to support municipalities, community-based organizations, and citizens in low-income communities. By wearing this device, users can monitor air quality and pollution levels. The goal is to provide affordable technology to citizens and non-profit environmental organizations in order to combat air pollution and promote clean air in cities.
Challenges
Artificial intelligence and data science have the potential to bring about positive change in society, particularly in the management and control of pollution in our cities. However, there are significant concerns about its adverse impact on the environment. It is undeniable that a substantial amount of energy is required to power certain artificial intelligence tools, which can lead to increased carbon emission and have a negative impact on habitats and ecosystems. Additionally, the electronic waste produced by the technology, particularly hazardous chemicals, can be harmful to both humans and animals.
The huge cost attributed to installing artificial intelligence sensors and the infrastructure for air pollution control may be a challenge for many countries in the global south. Similarly, dearth of air quality monitoring systems especially in some developing countries may make it difficult for city administrators to get accurate data on pollution levels. There is also the issue of transparency and lack of trust of stakeholders to such artificial intelligence tools, as they may be seen as models which are too complex and may likely lead to loss of jobs.
MI4People is anticipating the development of an artificial intelligence tool to monitor air quality and pollution levels in cities and local areas in the future. At present, the organization is focused on a project aimed at addressing marine pollution. The non-profit organization is creating an AI system that utilizes satellite imagery to detect plastic waste in oceans. This marine litter detection tool will aid in identifying waste and toxic materials in the ocean to collect them more quickly and efficiently and to protect marine organisms from extinction.
Future Outlook
It is worth noting that artificial intelligence has the capacity to improve the monitoring of air pollution in big cities, especially in developing countries with low technical and air monitoring capabilities. Smart cities working towards a sustainable environment can deploy drones equipped with cameras and sensors across the metropolis to monitor air quality and protect the health of the inhabitants.
Through the images taken by the drones, artificial intelligence can analyze the data obtained from satellite imagery and videos, helping authorities determine the source of pollution, predict environmental changes, and take precautionary measures against adverse weather conditions. By leveraging technology and innovation through artificial intelligence and machine learning to combat air pollution, city administrators can enhance environmental sustainability and make their cities a safe haven for people to live and thrive.
With greetings
MI4People team
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