AI4SIDS

AI Innovation Challenge 2024 Winner Announcement

1. About the Achievement
A Milestone in Climate Innovation
The AI Innovation Challenge 2024, hosted by the UNFCCC Technology Executive Committee (TEC) and Enterprise Neurosystem at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, highlighted groundbreaking contributions to climate technology. Among 114 proposals from 62 countries, Dr. Letetia Addison and her team from Trinidad and Tobago received the Grand Prize for their proposal “AI4SIDS: AI-driven climate resilience platform for SIDS.” This victory not only underscores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence but also emphasizes the critical role of innovation in addressing climate challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

The team’s dedication to applying AI in real-world scenarios demonstrates a clear path forward for both technological and educational advancements in climate resilience. The award ceremony at COP29, attended by global leaders and innovators, was a momentous occasion celebrating their impactful work.

2. About AI4SIDS

 
About the AI4SIDS Initiative
The AI-Driven Climate Resilience Platform for SIDS (AI4SIDS) aims to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience in SIDS through AI-driven solutions. By integrating real-time data, predictive analytics, AI-driven models including Large Language Models (LLMs), and IoT technologies, we provide actionable insights for governments and communities, enabling more effective disaster risk management with minimal human intervention. 
 
Background
The AI4SIDS initiative, a project spearheaded by researchers and graduates from The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, as part of the AI for Climate Research Cluster within the TTLAB Data Science Group. Our core team includes Letetia Addison, Patrick Hosein, Akil Hosang, Trevon Tewari, Tamia-Ashley Tuitt and Kris Manohar.
Our mission focuses on leveraging cutting-edge AI technologies to address climate challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS). These regions are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, and we are committed to advancing global collaboration and innovation to promote climate resilience.
 
 

AI4SIDS: A Game Changer for Climate Resilience
Overview: AI4SIDS is a pioneering AI-powered platform designed to bolster climate resilience in Small Island Developing States. These regions are disproportionately affected by climate-induced disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and rising sea levels. AI4SIDS integrates cutting-edge technologies to offer comprehensive solutions, including:

  • Real-time Data Collection: Autonomous processing of data from IoT sensors, social media, weather forecasts, and more.
  • Predictive Analytics: Advanced algorithms powered by GPT-4 predict climate events, allowing governments and communities to prepare in advance.
  • Localized Alerts: Multi-channel alerts delivered via mobile, SMS, TV, and radio in local languages.
  • Educational Resources: Tailored materials to raise community awareness and improve disaster readiness.
  • Automated Feedback Loops: Enables governments to refine and optimize disaster response strategies.

This transformative platform, leveraging AI and machine learning, empowers SIDS to mitigate risks, save lives, and reduce economic losses with minimal human oversight.

Watch the proposal video to see the platform in action: AI4SIDS Proposal Video.

Why Collaborate?
Our work aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
  • Goal 13: Climate Action – Enhancing resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related disasters.
  • Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Strengthening disaster risk reduction efforts in urban areas.
  • Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Fostering global collaborations for sustainable technology and resilience.
Expected Impact
  • Save lives and reduce property damage through enhanced disaster preparedness.
  • Support informed policy-making for sustainable infrastructure development.
  • Foster long-term sustainable development and community resilience in SIDS.
How You Can Support Us
We are seeking collaborators, partners, and supporters to bring this vision to life. Contributions can take various forms:
  • Providing expertise in AI, climate science, or related fields.
  • Sharing open-source components or datasets.
  • Funding or in-kind resources for technology development and deployment.
  • Connecting us with potential partners or sponsors.
Together, we can make a tangible difference in building climate resilience for some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.
If this aligns with your interests, we would love the opportunity to discuss potential avenues for collaboration or support. 

3. Team Members
Meet the Innovators Behind AI4SIDS

Dr. Letetia Addison: Project leader, seasoned statistician, and educator specializing in data-driven solutions for climate resilience.

Prof. Patrick Hosein: Project Advisor providing expert guidance on integrating machine learning into climate platforms.

Mr. Akil Hosang: Data scientist and LLM Specialist focusing on using innovative, open AI solutions such as GPT-4 for LLM integration.

Mr. Trevon Tewari: Data Scientist and LLM Specialist responsible for developing the platform’s speech-to-text integration from survey feedback.

Ms. Tamia-Ashley Tuitt: System Designer ensuring the platform’s outputs are environmentally relevant and practical.

Dr. Kris Manohar: LLM strategist providing effective feedback on NLP mechanisms for emergency preparedness.

Highlight: The team’s multidisciplinary expertise brought AI4SIDS from a conceptual proposal to a viable, impactful solution.

4. Event Highlights from COP29 Award Ceremony (November 16, 2024): A Celebration of Climate Innovation

  • Recognition of AI4SIDS as the most innovative and impactful project among 114 proposals from 62 countries.

Gallery Highlights: Photos of the award ceremony, team collaborations, and Dr. Letetia Addison (AI4SIDS Project Lead) presenting the AI4SIDS platform.

Photo above: Dr. Letetia Addison was presented the Certificate of Award by Ms. Sophie de Coninck, Director of Means of Implementation, UNFCCC TEC, while Mr. Bill Wright, Chair of Enterprise Neurosystem and Brainchild of the Challenge looks on.

Photo above: Members of the UNFCCC TEC Initiative team pose with Dr. Letetia Addison (centre) at the AI Innovation Challenge Award Ceremony on November 16 2024 at COP29 in Baku. 

Climate Innovation Day (November 18, 2024):

  • Discussions emphasized the broader applications of AI in combating climate crises globally, particularly in SIDS. 

Photo above: Dr. Addison shared insights during the Capacities for Climate Innovation: Artificial Intelligence session, outlining the AI4SIDS development journey.

Related Link: Learn more about COP29 and the award event: UNFCCC News Article.

Event Blog: https://medium.com/the-enterprise-neurosystem-blog/q-a-dr-letetia-addison-2024-ai-innovation-grand-challenge-winning-team-leader-85f898af9810

Media Links:
Watch Dr. Addison’s Interview on TV6’s Morning Edition about the Challenge: Winner of AI Innovation Challenge 2024.

5. Contact Section
Get in Touch
For inquiries about AI4SIDS or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to Dr. Letetia Addison via email

Let’s work together to advance AI solutions for a sustainable future.

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