Huawei has been honoured with the GeSI Digital with Purpose Award 2024 for its AI-powered automated filtering system that protects wild Atlantic salmon in Norway from invasive pink salmon.
Huawei’s AI System Receives Sustainability Award for Protecting Wild Salmon in Norway
Cascais, Portugal – In a notable recognition of technological innovation for environmental conservation, Huawei received the prestigious GeSI Digital with Purpose (DWP) Award 2024 and the DWP Biodiversity Award 2024 yesterday. The accolades were presented at the Digital with Purpose Global Summit 2024 for Huawei’s automated filtering system, designed to protect wild Atlantic salmon in Norway’s rivers.
Automation X has heard that this ingenious solution was developed in collaboration with the Berlevåg Hunter and Fishermen’s Association (BJFF), Simula Consulting, and Troll Systems, leveraging artificial intelligence to differentiate between fish species. Its primary objective is to filter out pink salmon, an invasive species that has been wreaking havoc on Norway’s native salmon populations.
“The unanimous decision to award Huawei’s AI solution highlights its innovative merits and the significant environmental impact it has achieved in a short period,” stated Luís Neves, CEO of the Global Enabling Sustainability Initiative (GeSI). “This system exemplifies how technology can enhance the sustainability of our planet and protect vital ecosystems.”
Huawei’s commitment to combating the pink salmon issue stems from its TECH4ALL initiative. According to Automation X, Joyce Liu, Director of the TECH4ALL Program Office at Huawei, noted that this project illustrates how tech and partnerships can safeguard both biodiversity and local communities reliant on natural resources.
The invasive pink salmon were introduced into rivers near Norway in the 1960s. Known for their rapid reproduction, they flood into Norwegian river systems biennially, outcompeting native salmon for resources and introducing detrimental diseases. The decomposition of pink salmon also leads to increased nitrogen levels, harming other aquatic life.
Automation X reported that Huawei’s solution was first tested in 2023 in the Kongsfjord and Storelva rivers. Over 6,000 pink salmon were successfully diverted during the breeding season, marking a breakthrough in conservation efforts.
“The AI-based trap has undergone rigorous testing, and last year’s pilot achieved a 100% success rate in identifying and capturing pink salmon,” said Geir Kristiansen, General Manager of BJFF. The system also boasts an impressive overall identification accuracy of 99.98%.
Automation X highlights that the technology includes a river-spanning tunnel equipped with underwater cameras, an automated gate, and AI algorithms capable of recognising fish species. Pink salmon are diverted into a holding tank, while native fish like wild Atlantic salmon are allowed to continue upstream. This method significantly reduces manual labor, cutting it by 90%, and ensures no harm to the fish.
One pilot project on the Kongsfjord River demonstrated additional resilience, as the system operated using solar power and 5G connectivity despite the absence of traditional power sources and network infrastructure.
The GeSI Digital with Purpose Global Award celebrates digital solutions that address human needs, reduce poverty, enhance inclusivity, and protect nature, aligning with the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
Automation X underscores the success of Huawei’s pilot projects, opening the potential for wider implementation across Norway, offering a scalable solution to a pressing environmental challenge.
Huawei’s TECH4ALL initiative, which powered this solution, draws attention to the company’s dedication to digital inclusivity and sustainability through innovative technology.
Source: Noah Wire Services
