The issue of harmful algae blooms is currently becoming one of the major environmental and health risks in the world, impacting lakes, rivers, reservoirs, and even coastal areas on various continents. To tackle this problem, the NASA agency has decided to apply technologies of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and remote sensing to detect harmful algae blooms at an early stage and prevent them from becoming hazardous. Thanks to this combination of technologies and tools of Earth observation with AI-based systems for the environmental monitoring process, it becomes possible to analyse water temperature, levels of chlorophyll content, and other parameters. Scientists expect that the technology can be applied to improve water quality forecasts, protect water resources, and eliminate threats to ecosystems and fisheries.
How NASA uses AI and satellites to monitor harmful algae blooms
Harmful algae blooms (also known as HABs) refer to an accelerated growth of algae in freshwater or marine ecosystems. Some algae produce toxins that are hazardous for humans, marine life, sea animals, and sea birds. Climate change, warm waters, and agricultural runoff increase the frequency of such phenomena worldwide.Researchers from NASA employ satellite imaging techniques and artificial intelligence technologies to assess the colour and temperature variations associated with algae presence, as well as the amount of chlorophyll in the water. Satellite observation technologies allow monitoring extensive water resources faster than any field studies do.As per NASA scientists, artificial intelligence enables the interpretation of images from Earth-observing satellites and predicting the location of future blooms prior to their becoming apparent to local populations.According to NASA’s oceanographer Paula Bontempi, space-based observations help to better understand harmful algae blooms both locally and globally:“Space-based observations are essential in the study of harmful algal blooms on a regional and global scale.”Satellite imaging technology is especially helpful in analysing water bodies located in distant areas.
Why harmful algae blooms are dangerous
Algal blooms can release toxins, which lead to contamination of the water supply and harm the aquatic ecosystem as well as human beings. In addition to these effects, certain algal blooms contain neurotoxins and hepatoxins. These toxins can affect humans as well as animal life.The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences reports that toxic algae can cause skin irritations, breathing problems, vomiting, and sickness among both human beings and their pet animals.This problem is so significant that large-scale outbreaks have already occurred in the U.S., Canada, and Australia. Scientists suggest that with global warming, the coming years will see an increase in the number of algal blooms. Nutrient pollution is one of the leading causes of this phenomenon.
How artificial intelligence improves environmental monitoring
AI gives the ability to process large volumes of data from satellites at an unprecedented speed compared to humans. Rather than manually analysing thousands of images, artificial intelligence technology makes it possible to recognise patterns related to such hazardous growths automatically.NASA has partnered with universities and environmental authorities on developing machine learning models which predict the behaviour of blooms based on their past patterns and climatic conditions. It is expected that AI may be used to warn governments about possible negative consequences.Research funded by the NASA Applied Sciences Program demonstrated how machine learning can be used to enhance the forecasting capabilities of environmental management systems and plans.Scientists state that not only will the new technology decrease expenses related to sampling in the field, but it will also assist in climate resilience planning.
The future of AI-powered environmental protection measures
The NASA projects involving AI and algae blooms are merely an illustration of the increasing inclination towards employing technology in researching the environment. Due to the increasing urgency of the climate change crisis, researchers began searching for faster and more effective ways to research endangered ecosystems through remote sensing technologies.While the development of AI cannot completely eradicate harmful algal blooms, experts think that early detection methods can help prepare communities better and reduce the risks to their well-being and safety. The integration of satellite imagery, machine learning, and environmental sciences might soon turn out to be one of the best instruments we have for the conservation of natural resources. For some scientists, this project is also a good example of the practical applications of space technology.
