Jeff Bezos contributes $100 million to AI initiatives combating climate change

The Bezos Earth Fund is set to donate up to $100 million for emergency solutions using artificial intelligence (AI) to combat climate change and the loss of nature. The initiative, led by Jeff Bezos, aims to encourage innovative projects that explore how modern AI can be utilized in addressing the climate crisis. This effort also seeks to foster collaboration between environmental solution groups and leading technology providers in order to find new ways to tackle the challenges we face.

Applications for funding will be available starting in May 2024, as announced on the Fund’s website. Bezos emphasizes the need to investigate the potential of modern AI in mitigating climate change and preserving nature. The Fund’s focus areas for the initial round of funding include sustainable proteins, biodiversity conservation, and optimizing the electrical grid. Additionally, a category for innovative ideas outside of these areas will also be considered.

In the first phase, up to 30 seed grants will be awarded to promising AI proposals addressing the specified priority areas. Following this, selected winners will have the opportunity to apply for grants of up to $2 million to further develop their concepts. They will receive mentorship, support from technology leaders, and access to necessary computing infrastructure and data sets. The Fund is calling this initiative the “Grand Challenge of artificial intelligence for climate and nature.”

Professionals, researchers, and innovators from universities, NGOs, private companies, and global organizations are encouraged to submit their proposals for consideration. The Fund’s ultimate goal is to harness the power of AI to advance environmental conservation efforts and create lasting solutions to pressing issues like climate change and biodiversity loss.