AI-Powered Surveillance: Combating Illegal Fishing to Protect Marine Biodiversity
Image Credit: NOAA | Unsplash
In an unprecedented move toward protecting marine biodiversity, artificial intelligence is being employed to combat illegal fishing, which accounts for a significant 20% of global catches. This initiative goes beyond conservation—it’s a critical effort to ensure the survival of marine species, many of which are on the brink of extinction.
Spanish Government Targets Illegal Vessels
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, the Spanish government recently fined 25 fishing vessels for operating unlawfully near Argentina’s territorial waters. Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing is a massive problem, with up to $23 billion worth of fish caught illicitly each year.
AI-Powered Surveillance by Global Fishing Watch
Enter Global Fishing Watch—an alliance co-founded by Google, Oceana, and SkyTruth. This organization leverages AI and satellite imagery to monitor over 65,000 commercial fishing vessels worldwide. Using advanced technology, this AI-powered system analyzes enormous amounts of satellite data to track the movements of ships, even those that try to evade detection by turning off their GPS-based identification systems.
How the AI Works
The AI distinguishes fishing vessels from other ships by processing environmental data and satellite imagery. It brings to light “dark” fleets that operate without broadcasting their positions. The initiative aims to expand its reach by incorporating higher-resolution imagery to track smaller, often-overlooked vessels.
Underwater Robots Add a New Layer of Protection
Innovation in combating illegal fishing doesn’t end there. A project led by the University of Southampton and RS Aqua aims to deploy submarine robots equipped with underwater sensors and AI. These robots will identify the ocean’s natural sounds and differentiate them from the distinct noise of trawlers, providing real-time alerts of illegal activities in protected waters.
Why AI in Marine Conservation Matters
As the race to protect marine ecosystems intensifies, integrating AI into conservation strategies serves as a beacon of hope. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and a commitment to harmoniously coexisting with nature. This initiative not only aims to curb illegal fishing but also strives to preserve the delicate balance of ocean life for future generations.
Source: BBC News
