Chapter 5: Digital intelligence

Some estimates suggest that over the next two years, we will add more computing power than in all of history.

As a result of this rapidly digitisation of the world, we are seeing the convergence between artificial intelligence, sensors, robotics and distributed networks.

To many, this implies a world of runaway machines beyond human control and deepening risk. Yet there is evidence that digital intelligence and in particular AI, holds many of the answers. There is a race between exploitation and security. What is missing however, from the risk narrative is that as interconnections develop, so does innovation.

The digital revolution in water energy and agriculture has only just begun. It will play a vital role in transforming ecosystem design and engineering in an increasingly volatile environmental and political future.