Finland is leveraging AI and satellite technology to track toxic algae blooms in its lakes and coastal waters. The Finnish Environment Institute (Syke) has partnered with Kuva Space, a company specializing in hyperspectral satellite data and AI-powered insights, to develop advanced models for monitoring water quality.
Kuva Space's hyperspectral satellites, Hyperfield-1A and Hyper-Vfield-1B, provide high-spectral resolution data that can identify specific algae species and assess their biomass. By processing this data with AI-powered analytics, the system can predict when and where harmful blooms are likely to occur, enabling proactive measures to mitigate their impact.
This public-private collaboration marks a significant advancement in environmental monitoring, particularly for inland water quality. The technology has potential applications in broader regulatory and restoration efforts, supporting cost-efficient measures and sustainability outcomes. By 2027, Kuva Space's hyperspectral monitoring will provide daily revisit rates, offering continuous insights for stakeholders and enhancing water safety across Finland.