As the world’s population grows, finding better ways to produce food without harming our environment is more important than ever. At COP29, the global climate change conference in November, leaders will explore how technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI), can make agriculture more resilient to climate change.
One focus will be on using AI to find and protect plant genes that can survive extreme weather, including those in African crops like leafy greens. By preserving these strong genes, scientists hope to create plants that can withstand droughts, heat, and pests.
AI helps us in three main ways:
- Data Analysis: AI can analyze massive amounts of data on soil, weather, and plant behavior, helping scientists discover new ways to protect crops.
- Automation: AI can manage resources like water and nutrients efficiently, reducing waste in agriculture.
- Real-Time Decisions: Through constant monitoring, AI enables farmers to respond quickly to changes, improving yields.
AI also plays a role in developing new, nutritious foods. For example, the Nobel-winning AlphaFold AI platform unlocked the secrets of protein structures, allowing scientists to create new proteins for food and healthcare. This breakthrough can lead to more sustainable food production, benefiting even the most remote areas.
However, access to AI technology is uneven. African countries are at risk of being left behind in these advancements due to limited resources and investment. As climate change impacts Africa more than other regions, its governments should push for fair access to AI tools at COP29. This includes advocating for ethical AI use that benefits the most vulnerable communities, rather than letting large corporations control these crucial innovations.
In short, as AI transforms agriculture, African leaders must ensure that this technology supports those who need it most, creating a sustainable and fair food system for all.
Source: eastleighvoice
