In this episode, of our special AI Impact series, Technology Partner Kate Cruickshank talks with Professor Albert Bifet, Director of the Artificial Intelligence Institute at the University of Waikato, about how AI is reshaping the environmental sector.

[01:10] Kate and Albert discuss AI technologies already being used in the environmental sector, including deep learning models, computer vision, and real-time analytics and consider how these tools are boosting productivity, improving conservation efforts, and helping manage vast scientific datasets in this sector.

[03:27] Albert highlights the growing impact of AI innovations in areas such as weather forecasting, species detection, and environmental surveillance. He notes that by tailoring these technologies to New Zealand’s distinctive ecology and environmental conditions, they are transforming the way environmental monitoring is conducted. He also emphasises the value of scientific collaboration in AI, pointing to initiatives like the TAIAO Environmental Data Science Project and ESR’s digital twin platform as key examples.

[05:37] Kate asks about the main challenges in adopting AI in the environmental space, and Albert outlines key issues like data accessibility and privacy, Māori data sovereignty, and a lack of general AI understanding within the scientific community. He emphasises the need for better education and more integrated collaboration across sectors to create an integrated ecosystem.

[07:45] Albert talks about how successful AI ecosystems abroad, particularly in Europe, have been built through joint investment from government, academia, and industry. He notes New Zealand's potential to do the same by leveraging its innovation culture and aligning national strategy with practical execution.

[10:20] They discuss the future of AI in the environmental sector, with Albert highlighting the rise of agentic AI and robotics. He describes a near future where AI agents autonomously complete tasks and AI-driven robots work in the field, multiplying productivity and unlocking new capabilities.

[13:14] Kate asks about the AI talent pipeline, and Albert explains the issue of brain drain in this area, stressing the importance of retaining skilled individuals in New Zealand and the need for a clear strategy and investment to combat this.

Information in this episode is accurate as at the date of recording, 30 April 2025.

Please contact Kate Cruickshank, Tom Maasland or our Technology team if you need legal advice and guidance on any of the topics discussed in the episode.

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