Harnessing Technology for Conservation: The Role of AI, Big Data, and GIS in Biodiversity Protection

The application of technology in the field of conservation has seen remarkable growth over recent years. With significant advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), big data, machine learning, remote sensing (RS), and geographic information systems (GIS), conservation efforts are undergoing transformative changes. These technologies enhance the ability to monitor ecosystems, predict environmental changes, and address threats such as poaching, illegal logging, and habitat degradation. By integrating data from various sources like satellite imagery, drones, and camera traps, conservationists can make well-informed decisions that lead to more effective biodiversity protection. Despite these innovations, challenges remain in fully optimizing the synergies between these technologies due to data accuracy issues, accessibility hurdles, and the need for specialized expertise.This Research Topic aims to explore the integration of AI, big data, machine learning, remote sensing, and GIS in strengthening conservation efforts. It seeks to understand how these technologies can be used for predictive modeling of wildlife populations, assessment of ecosystem health, and detection of illegal activities such as poaching. Furthermore, the research will investigate how real-time monitoring systems provide actionable insights for immediate conservation actions. The objective is not only to uncover the potential benefits of these technologies but also to identify the challenges and limitations hindering their full application, such as issues related to data handling and the necessity for trained personnel.To gather further insights in the application of technology in conservation, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- Predictive modeling using AI and machine learning for wildlife and ecosystem monitoring- The role of remote sensing and GIS in tracking large-scale environmental changes- Real-time monitoring of illegal activities with satellite data and drones- Challenges in data accuracy and the implementation of technology in conservation- Impacts of innovative technologies on biodiversity protection strategies Topic editors: Mikolo Yobo Christian, Koyel Sur, Arvind Dwivedi Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/72622/harnessing-technology-for-conservation-the-role-of-ai-big-data-and-gis-in-biodiversity-protection