Canadian Startup Uses AI Technology to Protect Whales from Ship Strikes

Canadian Startup Uses AI Technology to Protect Whales from Ship Strikes

In a bid to protect whales and other marine life from ship strikes, a Montreal-based startup called Whale Seeker Inc. has been awarded a grant of $850,000 from the federal Fisheries Department. The announcement was made by Fisheries Minister Diane Lebouthillier at the company’s offices this morning. Whale Seeker Inc., founded in 2018, is a pioneering company that brings together biologists, data scientists, and software developers to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) in monitoring marine mammals.

One of the key achievements of Whale Seeker is the development of an AI tool capable of analyzing aerial images to detect marine mammals at a remarkable speed. According to the company, the AI tool can identify marine mammals 25 times faster than the human eye. This breakthrough technology has the potential to prevent collisions between cargo ships and whales, dolphins, and porpoises. By using this application, cargo ships can navigate their routes more safely, avoiding areas where marine mammals are detected.

Moreover, the government can utilize Whale Seeker’s AI technology to make informed decisions about fishing zones. By analyzing the data collected by the AI tool, authorities will have a clearer understanding of whether specific areas need to be closed in order to protect vulnerable marine species. The integration of AI technology into marine conservation efforts marks a significant step forward in environmental sustainability.

Whale Seeker’s dedication to sustainable development has not gone unnoticed. In May 2023, the company’s AI technology was selected as one of the world’s top 10 artificial intelligence projects for sustainable development by UNESCO’s International Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence. This recognition further highlights the potential impact of AI in addressing pressing environmental issues.

Co-founder and CEO of Whale Seeker Inc., Dr. Sarah Johnson, expressed her enthusiasm about the grant and the potential of AI in marine conservation efforts. She stated, “We are proud to receive this funding, which will enable us to expand our research and further develop our AI technology. By harnessing the power of AI, we aim to prevent ship strikes and safeguard the marine ecosystem for future generations.”

The grant from the federal Fisheries Department will undoubtedly propel Whale Seeker’s efforts in utilizing AI to protect whales and other marine life. With continued advancements in technology and collaborations with key stakeholders, the company is on the path to making a significant impact in eco-friendly shipping practices and biodiversity conservation.

As the world becomes more aware of the environmental challenges we face, innovative solutions like Whale Seeker’s AI technology provide hope for a more sustainable future. By harnessing the power of AI, we can bridge the gap between scientific research and real-world conservation efforts, helping protect our planet and its magnificent creatures.