The race against extinction is on, and AI is joining the fight. According to a major report from Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, the rise of AI and digitisation could be a turning point in the battle to save vital plants and fungi before they vanish. With an estimated 40% of plant species at risk of extinction and another 330,000 yet to be analysed, the urgency is clear. AI is stepping in to help identify and protect these precious species, offering a glimmer of hope in an otherwise bleak situation.
The report highlights the incredible potential of new technology. Scientists can now track flowering times, identify new specimens, and extract genetic data from ancient fungus samples. Digitisation and online access to millions of specimens are opening up new insights, especially in the global south. This is a game-changer, as plants and fungi underpin all life on Earth, providing food, medicines, carbon storage, and climate regulation.
But it's not just about saving species. AI is also speeding up international collaboration and unlocking genetic secrets from fungi. High-quality genomes can be produced from old specimens, some up to 180 years old, making historical fungarium specimens a treasure trove for new medicines and disease prediction. Penicillin and statins, for example, were derived from fungi.
However, there are concerns over the energy consumption of AI datacentres. The report acknowledges the heavy use of energy and water by these facilities, which is a critical issue that needs to be addressed. Despite this, the potential of AI to help protect and preserve our natural world is undeniable.
In my opinion, the use of AI in botany is a fascinating development. It raises a deeper question about the role of technology in conservation. While it can help us identify and protect species, it also highlights the need for sustainable practices and ethical considerations. The report's caution about amplifying biases and inequalities is a reminder that we must use these tools responsibly and ensure they benefit all of humanity.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for AI to revolutionise our understanding of the natural world. By learning to identify challenging plants and unlocking genetic secrets, AI can help us discover new medicines and sustainable crops. This is a race against time, and AI is a powerful tool in our arsenal. But it's not just about the technology; it's about the people and the partnerships that make it work. The report calls for collaboration between technology companies and environment organisations, and it's this kind of cooperation that will ensure a brighter future for our planet's precious biodiversity.
