Using intuition and AI to save coral reefs | Dr. Annalisa Bracco | TEDxAlexanderPark

13 Aug 2024 · over 1 year ago

Dr. Annalisa Bracco is a scientist who uses computers and artificial intelligence to study ocean currents and their impact on coral reefs.
Her interest in the ocean began during her youth when she learned to sail in Venice.
Dr. Bracco's research focuses on eddies, which are vortices in the ocean that play a significant role in transporting materials, including coral larvae.
She discovered that eddies can isolate coral colonies, preventing genetic exchange between them.
Dr. Bracco's research has shown that coral reefs that are well-connected are more resilient to environmental stressors, such as bleaching events.
She and her team developed a machine learning algorithm that uses satellite data to map coral reef connectivity and identify regions that are most vulnerable to climate change.
This algorithm can help scientists prioritize conservation efforts and identify areas where restoration projects are most likely to be successful.
Dr. Bracco emphasizes the importance of human connectivity and communication in addressing the challenges facing coral reefs.
She believes that a combination of technological solutions, such as negative emission technologies and hydrogen conversion, along with individual actions to reduce carbon emissions, are necessary to protect coral reefs.