Organizations around the world are already utilizing AI to create meaningful change and improve people’s lives. In Asia-Stophav region-where we face challenges ranging from health inequalities to extremely weather-the potential for AI to help solve problems great.
That’s why we today announce APAC AI for the Society Initiative -a Google.org obligation of $ 10 million to help Asia Pacific Social Impact organizations develop transformative AI solutions to help their community. This initiative will focus on three critical areas: agriculture, health and energy. Today we also share why we focus on these three areas – and how AI can help – and in the coming months we will share more details about the first round of beneficiaries.
Agriculture: growing a smarter future
Agriculture is crucial to Asia and the Pacific and employs approx. 30% of the total population. But it is also a sector that faces major transitions, especially with climate change that is expected to reduce crop productivity by up to 50% in some areas by 2050.
This is where AI can help. AI can help farmers understand landscapes and monitor crops to increase their productivity and make smarter decisions about when and how to plant, water and fertilize. It could enable previous detection of pests and diseases and stop problems before spreading. In the end, AI can help build a more resilient and productive agricultural sector for the region and the world.
Health: Improving care and access
Region Asia and the Pacific are facing significant health challenges. We see a high incidence of chronic diseases, many underestimated populations and a lack of health specialists that often limit access to quality care.
AI can help with previous detection of health problems, leading to faster diagnoses and better patient results. AI can also make health operations more efficient, streamlining processes, support health workers and get people into the care they need faster. The most important thing is that AI has the potential to expand wider access to high quality healthcare services and reach societies that can otherwise be left behind.
Energy: Building efficiency in support of growth
Improving energy efficiency in Asia and the Pacific is crucial to utilizing the AI option and maintaining economic growth, while rising energy needs and emissions are controlling. AI-innovations are already optimizing traffic lights to reduce vehicle emissions in cities, help determine fuel-efficient routing and help cities tackle extreme heat.
APAC AI for the Society Initiative and Google’s ongoing work in this space reflects our belief that AI can be a strong strength for good. By strengthening organizations, we help create a more sustainable, healthier and more resilient future for communities throughout the Asia-Pacific region.