welt.de
AI-Powered Platform to Detect Lost Fishing Nets
The WWF, Accenture, and Microsoft launched GhostNetZero.ai, an AI-powered platform using sonar data to locate lost fishing nets (ghost nets) endangering marine life; the AI achieves 90% accuracy and aims to improve ocean cleanup efforts.
- How will the use of AI improve the detection and removal of ghost nets in the world's oceans?
- A new AI-powered platform, GhostNetZero.ai, aims to locate lost fishing nets in the ocean using sonar data. The WWF, Accenture, and Microsoft collaborated on this initiative, leveraging existing sonar data collected for purposes like ship navigation and wind farm placement. This technology automatically analyzes sonar images to identify potential ghost net locations.
- What is the scale of the ghost net problem, and what are the main environmental consequences?
- Ghost nets, encompassing lost fishing gear like nets, lines, and hooks, pose a significant threat to marine life and ecosystems. Australian researchers estimate that 2% of fishing equipment is lost annually, amounting to tens of thousands of square kilometers of nets and hundreds of thousands of kilometers of longlines, according to the WWF. This contributes substantially to ocean plastic pollution.
- What potential future applications or improvements could enhance the effectiveness of AI-powered ghost net detection?
- The AI's 90% accuracy in identifying ghost nets from sonar data marks a substantial improvement over manual searches. Further training will enhance its ability to differentiate nets from undersea cables, paving the way for more efficient removal efforts globally. The project, involving local fishermen, showcases a model for international collaboration in marine conservation.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the use of AI in detecting ghost nets very positively, highlighting its potential to improve the efficiency of cleanup efforts. The headline (while not provided) would likely emphasize this positive aspect. The introductory paragraph immediately establishes the positive potential of AI, setting a hopeful tone for the rest of the piece.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. Terms such as "ghost nets" and "deadly trap" are used, but these accurately describe the situation. The use of the word "gewaltige Datenmengen" (massive amounts of data) might be considered slightly emotive, but it doesn't significantly skew the overall neutrality.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the positive aspects of using AI to detect ghost nets, mentioning the environmental impact of these nets but not delving into the complexities of fishing practices or the potential challenges of implementing this technology on a large scale. It also omits discussion of alternative solutions to the problem of ghost nets, such as promoting sustainable fishing practices or improving net design.
Sustainable Development Goals
The initiative focuses on removing lost fishing nets (ghost nets) from the ocean using AI-powered sonar analysis. These nets endanger marine life and contribute to ocean plastic pollution. The project directly addresses SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by improving the efficiency of locating and removing these harmful nets, thus protecting marine ecosystems and biodiversity.