Artificial intelligence used in conservation project to study birds at Hong Kong’s Penfold Park and reduce sewage plant disturbance
- Drainage Services Department has been testing system to devise measures for a relocation of its plant
- Effort signals government’s awareness of reducing impact on animal habitats
Armed with six eyes and the ability to hear and feel, a device powered by artificial intelligence lurks among waterbirds at Penfold Park in Sha Tin, as part of a government pilot project for conservation.
The AI system identifies, tracks and analyses birds at the park, one of the largest habitats for egrets in the city. The machine is shaped like a flower pot, packed with six cameras, sound and vibration sensors, and shielded from the elements by a glass dome.
The Drainage Services Department, which has a sewage treatment plant near the park, has been testing the system for almost a year to devise conservation measures for a project to relocate its facility to a nearby cavern.
“We hope to do more to monitor birds comprehensively, over a longer period of time and regardless of weather, by introducing AI technology,” said Carol Yip Lai-yuk, engineer of the department’s sewerage projects division.
Observers have said the latest scheme was part of the government’s ongoing effort to encourage innovation and build a smart city.
