AI could be a critical tool to help save the planet

It's no secret that the health of our planet is declining. Deforestation, melting sea ice, rapidly disappearing species and more have weakened Earth's ecosystems, and climate change is arguably the most pressing issue of our time. We need to think outside of the box – and move swiftly – to recover a sustainable future. Once considered the stuff of science fiction, artificial intelligence (AI) is not only playing a growing role in our everyday lives, but it could be a critical tool in helping save the planet. In fact, reversing what could soon be permanent damage is the impetus for Microsoft's AI for Earth program, which awards grants to researchers and innovators dedicated to solving environmental challenges.