Integrating Machine Learning Into Wildlife and Forest Conservation: Ethical Considerations and Sustainable Practices

Abstract

This chapter has argued for clear ethical standards and good practices in the use of Machine Learning in the management of wildfire. Advanced technologies, such as Machine Learning, holds a lot of promise in enhancing wildfire management through better forecasts and improved strategies for quick response. However, the use of Machine Learning in the domain also raises some interesting and significant ethical issues, like data privacy, accountability, environmental justice, and community engagement. Before delving into ethical considerations, the chapter discusses the legal frameworks governing wildland fire management in the US, Australia, Canada, European Union, India, and other regions and how they adapted wildfire strategies in response to climate change and disaster recovery. With ethical considerations absorbed into the deployment of such technologies, stakeholders may work together to ensure that Machine Learning is a tool for equitable and sustainable management of wildfires.