UVM experts talk climate change solutions, AI at UN event in Brazil
UVM experts talk climate change solutions, AI at UN event in Brazil
Beth McDermott | Reporter assisted by AI
Two University of Vermont researchers joined the Nov. 15 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Belém, Brazil, to speak about artificial intelligence and climate change.
Asim Zia and Jon Erickson were on the ground for the summit, also called COP30, while several scientists from across UVM attended virtually, according to the school.
Zia, from UVM’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, organized a panel focused on the intersection of artificial intelligence and climate change. Erickson, from the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, spoke about ecological economics and regional climate solutions. Both are fellows of UVM’s Gund Institute for Environment.
AI and climate resilience
Zia’s panel, part of the U.N.’s Green Digital Action initiative, explored how AI technologies such as early warning systems, precision agriculture and climate diplomacy tools can support efforts to build climate resilience.
Zia, who has led more than $70 million in research projects, directs UVM’s Institute for Environmental Diplomacy and Security and co-directs the Social Ecological Gaming and Simulation Lab. The AI event was co-organized by UVM in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme, Cornell University, Environmental Peacebuilding and official COP delegations including Pakistan and Armenia.
Vermont’s role in climate leadership
Erickson discussed state and regional climate leadership, highlighting Vermont’s participation in the U.S. Climate Alliance, a group of 24 states representing 55% of the country’s population and 60% of the economy. These states have collectively reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 24% below 2005 levels while increasing collective GDP by 34%, according to the news release. Erickson is tracking progress since the Paris Agreement 10 years ago.
“This is a proud moment for Vermont,” Zia said. “UVM is not only contributing cutting-edge research but is also leading a global conversation on how AI innovation can accelerate climate action and improve our resilience.”
This story was created by reporter Beth McDermott, bmcdermott1@usatodayco.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.