AI Tracks Logging Post-Ban Lift: Government’s Approach
Together with Space Intelligence Company, the Kenyan government is mapping forests and monitoring carbon markets.
Professor Ed Mitchard, the company’s co-founder and chief scientist, stated in a statement released on Thursday that the initiative, which will be verified by Verra, an institution for Climate Action and Sustainable Development, aims to increase integrity and transparency in the carbon markets.
Mitchard stated that the institution will analyze the data using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.
According to the company, the goal of the initiative is to reduce deforestation in Kenya and Tanzania by collecting data between 2010 and 2020.
“Using our AI technology and the consolidated REDD (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) methodology, we will be able to create maps of forest change for the entire country,” stated Mitchard.
Additionally, Space Intelligence Limited mentioned that it will use activity data to pinpoint the precise location of deforestation.
“We are collaborating with local partners in each country to ensure that the maps are as accurate as feasible and that local conditions are taken into account. Mitchard added that we are also engaging with administrations and all project developers in both countries.
The combination of local knowledge about forests and deforestation drivers, our ability to process large quantities of satellite data, and the use of advanced artificial intelligence to generate accurate maps will ensure regional projects have access to the most accurate datasets possible.
ALSO READ: President Ruto Reverses Logging Ban after Six-Year Hiatus
Critics have criticized the decision of the government led by President William Ruto to lift the logging moratorium imposed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Beginning in July, the Head of State lifted the prohibition because it would create employment opportunities for Kenyans.
The ban imposed by Uhuru six years ago was intended to increase the 12.13 percent of the nation that is covered by vegetation. In contrast, forest cover is now 8.83 percent, down from 10 percent in the 2000s.
Ruto, one of Africa’s climate crusaders, announced the prohibition and insisted that strict rules would govern the felling of trees and that only mature trees would be felled.
“People are struggling to obtain wood, while trees in forests are deteriorating. President stated at the time, “We have lifted the ban so that we can harvest mature trees.”
The Edinburgh, United Kingdom-based Space Intelligence Company takes pride in providing geospatial intelligence for nature-based solutions and sustainability-linked financial reporting.
AI Tracks Logging Post-Ban Lift: Government’s Approach
