Today's Edition
MAYS IBRAHIM (ALETIHAD)
The UAE revealed on Saturday at COP29 the plans to develop "CHAG," the world's first ChatGPT tool tailored for the agricultural community.
Environmentalists are hailing this initiative as a game-changer with the potential to optimise resource use, combat climate change, and enhance global food security.
Dr. Rahaf Ajaj, Assistant Professor in EHS at Abu Dhabi University's College of Health Science, noted that an initiative like "CHAG" demonstrates how technology can address two of the world's most pressing issues - climate change and food security.
"The UAE's commitment to innovation and sustainability is clear in this initiative and sets a strong example for others," Dr. Ajaj, who is currently participating in COP29, said.
Tools like "CHAG" hold transformative potential for building resilience in global agriculture, especially in regions plagued by water scarcity and unpredictable weather, according to Dr. Ajaj.
"By leveraging over 50 years of agricultural research, Chag provides farmers with real-time, data-driven insights. This can help optimise resource management - such as water and fertiliser use - reducing waste and environmental impact," she added.
Dr. Ajaj further explained how the intersection of AI and agriculture opens up innovative pathways to mitigate the effects of climate change.
"AI tools like 'CHAG' can promote sustainable farming practices, including regenerative agriculture, which enhances soil health and increases carbon sequestration. Farmers adapt to climate change and contribute to its mitigation by integrating these practices," she said.
"The ripple effect of such tools on reducing emissions while enhancing food security is profound," she said.
What sets "CHAG" apart is its focus on accessibility and practicality.
Dr. Ajaj noted that the initiative goes beyond leveraging AI for the sake of technology - it aims to empower farmers, including those in the most remote areas, with actionable insights.
"This is a global model for how we can use innovation to build resilience and sustainability in agriculture, ensuring a better future for both people and the planet. The UAE truly leads the way in showcasing what's possible when technology meets vision," Dr. Ajaj said.
Nahal Nabil, an ESG & Sustainability Strategist, also had the chance to witness the discussions at COP29 on how tools like "CHAG" are reshaping agriculture by delivering real-time, research-driven insights.
For Nabil, the standout feature of "CHAG" lies in its scalability.
"This tool is addressing challenges close to home, like food security and water scarcity… What makes this even more interesting is how scalable these solutions are," she said.
Nabil explained that integrating this AI tool with the UAE's cutting-edge irrigation systems and desert farming expertise could provide a blueprint for other water-scarce regions around the world.
According to Nabil, the rollout of tools like "CHAG" testifies to the UAE's commitment to fulfilling the promises it made during COP28, where agri-tech was a major focus.
"It's incredible to see how those promises are now being translated into tangible actions, with solutions like CHAG already making a real impact," she said.
This announcement not only strengthens local food security, it also strengthens the UAE's position as a global leader in climate-smart agriculture, added Nabil.
