Alwaleed Philanthropies launches Atlai, an AI platform to support global efforts to combat deforestation.
To confront one of the most critical environmental challenges of our time, Atlai claims to provide users around the world with realtime access to data on deforestation. The platform is designed to document and raise awareness on deforestation activities wherever they are occurring.
It aggregates historical data on deforestation by country, offering on-demand, easy-to-digest reports in seven languages including English, French, Spanish, Mandarin, Hindi, Italian, and Arabic.
According to Alwaleed, deforestation is estimated to contribute up to 20% of annual global greenhouse gas emissions. Forests provide integral carbon and biodiversity reservoirs, crucial for mitigating climate change and providing essential goods, services, and livelihoods. However, deforestation increased by 4% worldwide in 2022, with the world now 21% off-track on its goal of ending deforestation by 2030.
Alwaleed representatives say that widespread access to climate data can be the catalyst for the engagement and action needed at all levels to address the climate emergency. Guided by the SDGs and Saudi Vision 2030, Atlai aims to close the knowledge gap faced by groups working to address deforestation, through the provision of accessible, actionable data at no cost.
By completing a straightforward registration process, users gain immediate access to detailed reports delivered directly to their email. Environmental advocates and activists are encouraged to join the platform to receive updates curated to their interests, enabling them to closely monitor and stay informed about forest conditions worldwide.
Reflecting on the launch, Alwaleed Secretary-General HRH Princess Lamia bint Majed Al Saud says that in the face of major development challenges and a deepening climate emergency, Alwaleed has made it a priority to support a healthier environment and, innovation is the key to addressing the most pressing climate challenges. Atlai is the first step in AP’s efforts to invest in AI and emerging technologies.
“In the face of escalating climate crises, the need for accessible, actionable data has never been greater. Deforestation poses an existential threat to our environment, and we currently lack easily accessible data to enable decision-making and find solutions. Atlai represents our philanthropic commitment to using innovation and collaboration to solve the world’s most pressing issues. With Atlai, we look forward to harnessing the potential of AI to empower individuals and organizations around the world to become proactive agents of change in the fight against deforestation,” says HRH Al Saud.”
Since 1990, approximately 420 million hectares of forest have been lost worldwide due to deforestation.
However, there’s some positive news: the rate of forest loss has declined substantially. In the most recent five-year period (from 2015 to 2020), the annual rate of deforestation was estimated at 10 million hectares, down from 12 million hectares in the previous period (2010–2015) according to a UN Report.
Notes from Editor: For information of Atlai, visit here.
