Empa Contributes to SATW Study on AI’s Role in Mitigating Climate Change in Switzerland

Empa Contributes to SATW Study on AI’s Role in Mitigating Climate Change in Switzerland

(IN BRIEF) A study by the Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences (SATW), co-authored by Empa researcher Gerrit Kuhlmann, highlights how artificial intelligence (AI) and satellite-based earth observations can help reduce the impact of climate change in Switzerland. The study suggests that AI can provide real-time, accurate tracking of greenhouse gas emissions, surpassing current methods. It also emphasizes the importance of international collaboration and access to global data for developing effective monitoring systems. The SATW study includes recommendations for policymakers to fully exploit AI’s potential in climate sustainability.

(PRESS RELEASE) DÜBENDORF, 23-Jul-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — A groundbreaking study by the Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences (SATW) has highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to mitigate the impact of climate change in Switzerland. The research, co-authored by Empa researcher Gerrit Kuhlmann, emphasizes the use of AI models combined with satellite-based earth observations to quickly identify greenhouse gas emission sources.

Advanced Monitoring with AI and Satellite Data

The study showcases how integrating AI with satellite data can offer unprecedented spatial and temporal resolution in identifying and monitoring climate-related risks. This approach could revolutionize the way greenhouse gas emissions are tracked, providing real-time, accurate data that surpasses the current method based on socio-economic statistics and emissions inventories, which are often resource-intensive and fraught with uncertainties.

Kuhlmann elaborates in the SATW white paper that AI and new earth observation data could streamline the monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing the evaluation of political measures aimed at reducing emissions. The study underscores the importance of such technologies in making society and the economy more resilient to climate change.

Global Systems for Emission Tracking

The development of a global system for measuring greenhouse gas emissions is crucial for monitoring progress toward net-zero targets. Current efforts include the creation of monitoring systems that use airborne, satellite, and ground-based measurements to provide real-time data on emissions from countries, power plants, and industrial facilities. AI plays a pivotal role in processing vast amounts of data quickly and accurately, facilitating the creation of global emission maps that can pinpoint hotspots and better estimate carbon footprints.

Recommendations for Decision-Makers

The SATW study also offers recommendations for policymakers, academia, and industry leaders to fully leverage AI’s potential in addressing climate change. Strengthening national competence centers in AI and climate sustainability, and ensuring access to international research programs, are key suggestions. The study highlights the importance of the European Copernicus program and other international initiatives like Horizon Europe for advancing greenhouse gas monitoring.

Significance for Swiss Research

Kuhlmann emphasizes the necessity of access to global earth observation data for developing robust models for greenhouse gas monitoring. The EU’s Copernicus program, with its upcoming enhancements in CO2 and methane measurement satellites, is particularly vital for Swiss researchers. Participation in international research programs is crucial for maintaining Switzerland’s leadership in this field.

Comprehensive Study on AI and Climate Change

The SATW study, involving over 70 experts from 30 Swiss institutions, explores how emerging technologies can bolster societal and economic resilience to climate change. The white paper and accompanying factsheet provide detailed insights into the role of AI in environmental monitoring and climate change mitigation.

The Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences continues to promote AI projects and identify critical technologies for achieving climate neutrality and ensuring supply security, reinforcing Switzerland’s commitment to combating climate change.

Media Contacts:

PD Dr. Gerrit Kuhlmann
Air Pollution / Environmental Technology
Phone +41 58 765 47 53
gerrit.kuhlmann@empa.ch

Manuel Martin
Communications
Phone +41 58 765 44 54
redaktion@empa.ch

SOURCE: EMPA