The outlaws of the ocean -- and how we're reeling them in | Tony Long
Sep 1, 2023
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Tony Long, ocean conservation expert and 2023 Audacious Project grantee, discusses the impact of illegal fishing and the role of technology in protecting ocean ecosystems. He introduces Global Fishing Watch's live map of industrial activity at sea and highlights the global commitment to conserve 30% of the ocean by 2030.
Utilizing satellite data and AI, Global Fishing Watch has created a live map of all industrial human activity at sea to catch maritime offenders and protect aquatic habitats.
By leveraging GPS location data and satellite imagery, a free and open-access monitoring system can be developed to track ocean-going vessels, protecting critical habitats and advancing ocean science.
Deep dives
Using technology to combat illegal fishing
Illegal fishing represents a multi-billion-dollar industry with detrimental effects on the environment and global fisheries. Ocean conservationist Tony Long explains how leveraging technology, such as AI and satellite imagery, can help end environmental abuse and preserve our oceans. Through Global Fish and Watch, GPS location data and machine learning are used to create a live stream map that monitors industrial fishing fleets. This information is made public and freely accessible, aiding in the enforcement of regulations and reducing illegal fishing activities. The aim is to create a comprehensive, dynamic map of all industrial activity at sea to protect critter habitats and advance ocean science.
Empowering ocean management with public data
Advancements in technology and AI provide an opportunity to develop tools for governments and conservationists to uphold commitments towards protecting the ocean. By utilizing GPS location data and satellite imagery, a free and open-access monitoring system can be created to track over a million ocean-going vessels, including cargo ships, oil structures, aquaculture farms, and wind farms. This data can be used to protect critical habitats, assist in the establishment of marine protected areas, and advance ocean science. With public knowledge and open technology, it is possible to transform ocean management for the common good and ensure the sustainability of ocean resources for future generations.
Pirate fishing, oil spills and other undetected crimes are destroying ocean ecosystems -- but we can't stop what we can't see. Harnessing the power of satellite data and AI to catch maritime offenders in the act, ocean conservation expert and 2023 Audacious Project grantee Tony Long introduces the first-ever live map of all industrial human activity at sea. He shares how his team at Global Fishing Watch is making it freely available to the world so conservationists, researchers and the public can help protect precious aquatic habitats. (This ambitious idea is a part of the Audacious Project, TED's initiative to inspire and fund global change.)