Google, Deloitte's report suggests digital transformation benefits the sustainable development of emerging countries. (Image: Google)
Technology plays a crucial role in combating climate change, especially with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI). Digital transformation, supported by AI, is considered key to the sustainable development of ASEAN countries.
Tech giant Google has not only proposed at least four climate solutions but also collaborated with consulting firm Deloitte to develop a blueprint to help developing countries accelerate emission reductions.
Google’s tools aid in urban cooling, carbon reduction
Google Research is exploring how AI can help cool the Earth and has updated a tool called Heat Resilience. This tool uses satellite and aerial imagery to detect green space and the effectiveness of rooftop sunlight reflection, estimating the amount of vegetation or cool roofs needed to cool a city. It is currently being tested in 14 cities across the United States.
In cities where temperatures remain high, partly due to the large number of vehicles, Google’s Green Light Project combines Google Maps to create an AI model that adjusts traffic light timings to reduce the time cars spend on the road. This initiative is applied in 12 cities globally across 70 intersections. Preliminary data suggests that vehicle stoppages could be reduced by 30%, potentially decreasing emissions at intersections by up to 10%.
For overall urban climate development, Google has also developed the Environmental Insights Explorer (EIE), which estimates urban tree canopy coverage, calculates carbon emissions based on transportation types and distances, estimates the CO2 emissions from building heating and cooling, and evaluates solar energy potential.
Southeast Asia is one of the regions most vulnerable to climate impacts, with recent severe typhoons causing significant damage in Vietnam. Google has also designed a flood forecasting system that provides real-time flood information with the help of data and AI and can issue warnings up to a week in advance. This system is currently used in over 80 countries, including Vietnam, Thailand, and India.
Google's analytics tools use satellite and aerial imagery to detect green space areas and estimate the number of plants or cool roofs needed to cool a city. (Image: Google)
Digital transformation helps mitigate climate disasters
Effective execution strategies are essential for maximizing the impact of these climate solutions. Google and Deloitte suggest that emerging countries addressing climate challenges through digital transformation can focus on three key areas:
1. Mitigation
Digital technology can improve energy use, enhance efficiency, and support low-carbon alternatives, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The report estimates that AI-driven systems could increase energy and fuel use efficiency, potentially reducing carbon emissions by 20%.
2. Adaptation and resilience
Digital tools are crucial for developing warning systems, infrastructure, and precise environmental monitoring. They assist in data analysis and help adjust climate actions.
3. Setting foundations
Governments play a critical role by establishing clear goals, public engagement, and automated tracking of emissions and resources. Investing in network accessibility, data availability, and collaboration between academia and industry is key to fostering digital innovation and climate action.
Source: Deloitte, Eco-business, Google
