Saving lives per click: AI protects coastal inhabitants in Indonesia

AI is a powerful tool that brings solutions to the growing climate challenges in Indonesia, where, according to the World Bank, around 70 per cent of natural disasters are climate-related, placing the country among the most affected by climate change. Ruth Schmidt, AI expert for Climate and Sustainability, says during the launch of the recent report on AI for climate action:

However, they also stressed the importance of being mindful of the environmental costs of digitalisation, urging for solutions that are both innovative and environmentally sustainable.

The initiative “FAIR Forward – Artificial Intelligence for all” focuses on leveraging data and artificial intelligence (AI) to support communities in building solutions to tackle climate challenges, from early warning systems to tools that help conserve tropical forests.

Adapting to climate challenges

Mugni Hadi Hariadi, Climatology Senior Analyst from Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) points out that collecting data is just the beginning. Sharing climate data with the public and ensuring that action is taken accordingly, is essential. Access to information and literacy of early warning systems, including how to read climate data correctly, are crucial steps in making climate action benefit people.

Alessandra Lustrati, Head of Digital Development from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office of the United Kingdom Government, noted that early warning systems are also about understanding the patterns in climate change and adjusting our production and consumption. It’s not just about climate resilience, but climate adaptation as well.

In this context of adaptation, the Blue Economy Project supported by FAIR Forward and implemented by the Common Room Network Foundation in Indonesia leverages IoT devices and AI to collect localised weather data, providing rural communities like those in Aceh with accurate weather predictions critical for small-scale fishing, ecotourism, and coastal protection. By empowering fishermen and women with real-time insights, the initiative enhances safety, optimises livelihoods, and supports sustainable local, blue economies.

Ethical AI in focus

Karlina Octaviany, Advisor and Indonesia focal point for FAIR Forward addressed this situation through partnership with the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas). She emphasised the need for open-access technology with gender and disability inclusion, as well as discussions on ethical AI by various stakeholders to enrich perspectives.

Meaningful connectivity

For digital solutions to be effective, internet access is essential. Due to a lack of infrastructure in rural communities, Indonesia faces a digital divide between rural and urban areas. Alessandra Lustrati, FCDO UK Government, stressed the importance of involving communities, harnessing local knowledge, and using low-cost and locally resourced materials to bridge this gap.

Indonesia’s journey towards climate resilience illustrates the need for an integrated approach combining data, AI, and connectivity with local knowledge. Digital transformation means transformation of society, which will always present challenges. Humans and humanity should be at the core of our efforts to build meaningful connectivity and climate resilience.