It is helping us understand nature's early warning signals and, more importantly, take timely decisions to reduce environmental damage.

The Earth continuously sends signals - rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, and stressed ecosystems. Earlier, these signs were noticed only after the damage had occurred. Today, AI is changing this approach. By analysing vast data from satellites, sensors, and weather systems, AI can detect subtle changes early and convert them into actionable insights.

For example, AI can identify slight increases in ocean temperature that may lead to cyclones. It can also detect changes in soil moisture that signal drought conditions. In forest areas, AI analyses heat, wind, and dryness to predict wildfire risks in advance. These early warnings allow authorities to prepare - issuing alerts, managing resources, and protecting vulnerable communities.

However, prediction alone is not enough. The real value of AI lies in guiding decisions. It helps answer a practical question - what should be done next? By analysing different scenarios, AI guides better planning and faster response. One of the biggest challenges today is climate change, which is affecting agriculture, water availability, and energy systems. AI is already offering practical solutions in these areas.

In agriculture, AI helps farmers manage uncertain weather conditions. For instance, AI-based mobile tools in India analyse rainfall data and advise farmers on optimal sowing times. If the monsoon is delayed, farmers may shift from rice to less water-intensive crops like millets. AI-enabled sensors also support smart irrigation by releasing water only when soil moisture is low. In addition, farmers can detect crop diseases early by uploading images to AI platforms, preventing large-scale damage. These simple interventions reduce losses and improve food security.

AI tools are widely used by farmers across Maharashtra and Karnataka for analysing the monsoon patterns and advising shifts from water-intensive crops like rice and various types of millets. The same pattern is explored for the 'Alphonoso-Hapus' mangoes in the Konkan Region of Maharashtra.

Water management is another area where AI is making a visible impact. In cities, AI systems monitor pipelines and detect leakages, saving significant amounts of water. AI predicts groundwater levels from past rainfall and usage trends, enabling authorities to regulate extraction. In dam management, AI estimates incoming water during heavy rains and supports controlled release, reducing flood risks while ensuring future availability.

Google AI-powered flood forecasting programmes have saved human and animal lives in the Ganga Basin in India and the Brahmaputra delta in Bangladesh. Similarly, IBM's cyclone prediction models are actively used in the Bay of Bengal region to ensure and improve early warnings.

AI is also playing an important role in clean energy. Since solar and wind energy depend on weather conditions, AI helps predict their output in advance. This allows power systems to plan better and reduce reliance on coal-based energy. Smart grids use AI to balance electricity demand and supply in real-time. For example, during peak hours, non-essential loads can be reduced automatically. Industries are also using AI to monitor energy consumption, identify inefficiencies, and reduce waste, leading to lower emissions and better cost control.

Another important application is in biodiversity protection. AI systems analyse images and sound from forests to detect illegal activities such as logging or poaching. Early identification helps authorities take quick action, protecting ecosystems that are essential for environmental balance. At the same time, it is important to recognise that AI itself consumes significant energy. Data centres require significant power, which can increase carbon emissions if not managed properly. Therefore, the focus must also be on sustainable AI - powered by renewables and designed for efficiency.

This Earth Day, the message is clear. AI is not just a future concept; it is already delivering practical solutions. By combining early signals with timely decisions, AI helps us respond to climate challenges more effectively and systematically. If used responsibly, AI can become a strong partner in building a future where economic growth and environmental protection go hand in hand.

(Ranjith Krishnan is a sustainability consultant, Thane. Ashish P Thatte is chairman, Sustainability Standards Board, ICMAI. Arunabha Saha is practising cost accountant, and editor of a sustainability newsletter.)

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are the author's own. They do not necessarily reflect the views of DH.