AI Heads to the Mountains! Smart Technology Launches Cloud Forest Conservation Initiative
To further safeguard Taiwan’s mountain ecosystems and the biodiversity of its cloud forests, the NTU Experimental Forest and Inventec Corporation have teamed up to successfully establish the “Cloud and Wildlife AI Monitoring System.” By combining artificial intelligence technology with on-site sensing equipment, the project has developed a real-time monitoring webpage platform (latest updates from NTU Experimental Forest: https://www.exfo.ntu.edu.tw/), enabling the public to stay informed and actively participate in conservation efforts.
This collaboration between NTU Experimental Forest and Inventec commenced a year ago, leveraging edge computing devices and visible-light and infrared imaging equipment donated by Inventec. Both teams have deepened AI applications, incorporating intelligent image recognition algorithms to monitor cloud formation and identify animal activities. These efforts have significantly improved data collection efficiency and the ability to analyze ecological changes. With the 24/7 automated monitoring system, researchers can now track cloud dynamics in real time. Moreover, the ability to monitor the activity frequency and distribution of visitors and wildlife provides critical insights into the impact of human interference on natural ecosystems and the preservation of biodiversity.
The newly launched webpage platform integrates a user-friendly visualization interface with real-time data updates. This innovation facilitates academic research and allows the public to engage in forest conservation directly through their browsers, promoting environmental education and data transparency.
Professor Ming-Che Tsai, Head of the NTU Experimental Forest, stated: “The results of this AI monitoring initiative have not only boosted research efficiency but also provided real-time insights into the environmental changes and stressors affecting the cloud forest ecosystem. This significantly aids in developing concrete, scientific conservation strategies.”
Inventec Chairman Yeh, Li-Cheng expressed that the results have exceeded expectations. Through the provision of AI technology and donated equipment by Inventec and its subsidiary AIM, the company has contributed to the protection of Taiwan’s precious cloud forests and biodiversity. Chairman Yeh hopes that in the future, more partnerships among industry, government, and academia will leverage corporate technological strengths to protect the environment, give back to society, and deepen sustainability efforts through AI and digital technology.