AI is revolutionizing agriculture by optimizing resource use, enhancing productivity, and driving innovation. This section showcases the key AI breakthroughs in agriculture that are reshaping modern farming practices and agricultural industries.
Browse all the other fields in our curated collection of the most important AI Breakthroughs. Each section offers insights into how AI is transforming different sectors, providing a comprehensive view of its impact across a wide range of disciplines.
AI Breakthroughs in Agriculture - At a Glance
AI (through apps like Shepherd’s Grain and ClimateAi) is transforming agriculture with precise weather forecasts and crop management.
Original Article Title:
‘We are creating new crops five-times faster’
Source: BBC
Date: 13 June 2024
AI is becoming a crucial tool in agriculture to combat climate change. Companies like Shepherd’s Grain and ClimateAi use AI for precise weather forecasting and crop management. Projects like Artemis, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, use AI to develop climate-resilient crops faster. Meanwhile, Avalo leverages AI for genetic analysis to produce quicker-growing, more resilient crops. However, challenges like data quality and technology accessibility remain.
AI tool could use photographs to predict harvests, researchers say
Original Article Title:
AI tool could use photographs to predict harvests, researchers say
Source: The Independent
Date: 18 June 2024
Key Takeaway: A new AI system developed by researchers at the National Robotarium in Edinburgh can accurately predict fruit harvests by counting flowers on trees using standard smartphone photos. This technology aims to enhance crop yield predictions and reduce waste.
Key Points:
- The AI system counts flowers on fruit trees, predicting yields up to six months in advance.
- It achieved 90% accuracy in trials, significantly higher than manual counts.
- The tool helps farmers optimize resources, reduce waste, and improve harvest planning.
- Future adaptations may benefit other crops like apples, pears, and cherries.
Why This Matters: This AI technology can revolutionize farming by improving resource management and sustainability, potentially reducing global food waste and enhancing agricultural productivity.
Indonesian fishermen are using a government AI tool to find their daily catch
Original Article Title:
Indonesian fishermen are using a government AI tool to find their daily catch
Source: Rest of World
Date: 9 August 2024
Key Takeaway:
Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is leading the country’s efforts in applying artificial intelligence (AI) to address various challenges, from boosting the fishing industry to combating illegal activities, while also navigating concerns over data security and AI adoption.
Key Points:
- BRIN’s Role: BRIN, established in 2019, is spearheading the implementation of AI across Indonesia, focusing on five priority areas: education, healthcare, food security, environmental monitoring, and sustainable mining.
- NN Marlin App:
- Fisheries Impact: Fisheries contribute nearly 3% to Indonesia’s GDP.
- Usage: The NN Marlin app is used by hundreds of fishermen across Indonesia, helping them locate fish with greater accuracy and efficiency.
- Cost: Fishermen pay 1.2 million rupiah (approximately $73) for a tablet with an internet subscription to access the app. BRIN provides up to six updates daily on potential fishing zones.
- AI in Law Enforcement:
- Illegal Fishing: Indonesia loses at least $3 billion annually due to illegal fishing activities. The NN Marlin app also helps authorities detect illegal fishing and monitor foreign vessels.
- Marijuana Detection: BRIN’s AI tools help law enforcement locate illegal marijuana fields using remote sensing technology, improving the certainty of police operations.
- Big Tech Investments:
- Nvidia and PT Indosat: Announced a $200 million investment in an AI center in Central Java.
- Microsoft: Pledged $1.7 billion for AI and cloud infrastructure, along with training for 840,000 Indonesians.
- Google Cloud: Involved in developing generative AI solutions for healthcare in Indonesia.
- Data Security Concerns:
- Ransomware Attack: A major ransomware attack in June 2024 affected more than 160 government agencies, disrupting services like immigration and airport operations. This incident highlights the risks associated with the vast amounts of data collected for AI training.
- Legislation: The implementation of Indonesia’s Personal Data Protection Law is crucial to safeguard data security as AI adoption increases.
- Economic Impact:
- GDP Contribution: AI could contribute nearly $1 trillion to Southeast Asia’s GDP by 2030, potentially boosting Indonesia’s GDP by about 12%.
- Long-Term Vision: Indonesia aims to leverage AI to become a high-income economy by 2045, promoting more inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Why This Matters:
Indonesia’s proactive approach to AI, led by BRIN, demonstrates the country’s commitment to harnessing technology to solve real-world problems, from boosting the fishing industry to enhancing law enforcement capabilities. However, as AI adoption accelerates, ensuring data security and addressing economic disparities will be crucial for sustainable development.
