Innovative AI Solutions For Climate Win At Samsung And UNDP's UAE Hackathon

Samsung Electronics MENA, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has recently honored the victors of the ACT28 AI for Climate Hackathon during a special event at the AI Retreat 2024. The initiative recognized three standout projects: Pestipilot AI from the UAE, Gamified AI Recycling Bin for Efficient Waste Segregation from Saudi Arabia, and Green Finance Navigator from Turkey. These projects were celebrated for their inventive use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies to combat the effects of climate change.

Pestipilot AI, the UAE's contribution, is an AI-driven drone aimed at enhancing crop pesticide control. This system utilizes advanced image classification based on deep learning to pinpoint areas where crop quality is compromised, whether by insect infestations or improper pesticide application. Additionally, it collects soil samples to verify adherence to regional pesticide standards. Together with a Pesticide Control App, it delivers accurate pesticide use recommendations and transparent reports to aid farmers in making well-informed decisions.

From Saudi Arabia, the Gamified AI Recycling Bin for Efficient Waste Segregation introduces an AI-enhanced computer vision and a gamified reward mechanism to improve waste sorting and recycling efforts, thereby fostering environmental sustainability and engaging the community.

The Green Finance Navigator from Turkey offers a pioneering platform that simplifies and refines the process of securing climate finance and sustainable investment. This tool is essential for efficiently funneling funds into impactful climate projects, furnishing reliable data for sustainable investments, and equipping users with extensive management and collaboration tools for projects and stakeholders.

Global Participation and Support

The competition, unveiled alongside COP28 in Dubai in 2023, saw participation from over 50 projects across seven nations. A rigorous selection process led to ten teams, each comprising three members, being shortlisted for the final presentation in front of a panel from Samsung and UNDP on May 26.

Utilizing a vast array of technologies like AI and machine learning for data-centric solutions, Internet of Things (IoT) for monitoring in real time, Blockchain for transparent climate finance, and Data Analytics along with Visualization for insightful actions, the participants showcased their innovative capabilities. They received guidance from experienced mentors part of Generation17, a Samsung-UNDP initiative aimed at amplifying the voices and innovations of young leaders towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Comments from the organizers highlighted the event's success. Susanne Dam-Hansen, Regional Hub Manager a.i. for UNDP, commended the ingenuity and technical proficiency of the winning teams in utilizing AI and technology to address climate change. Similarly, Omar Saheb, Regional VP of Marketing and Online Business at Samsung Electronics MENA, praised the innovative solutions and reiterated Samsung's dedication to nurturing future innovators.

The AI Retreat 2024, hosted by the Dubai Center for AI Applications in partnership with the National Program for Artificial Intelligence and under the DUB.AI initiative, aimed to promote AI adoption across various sectors. The event showcased the expertise of over 1,000 AI professionals and aimed to establish Dubai as a leading center for AI advancement.