By Bukola Imam
Professor Esther Akinlabi, a professor of Mechanical Engineering, Northumbria University, Newcastle, United Kingdom has said that about 8 million tons of plastics end in the sea annually.
Akinlabi made the submission in Ilorin during her paper presentation at the 2nd Faculty of Engineering and Technology International Conference (FETiCON 2024) organised by the Faculty of Engineering and Technology of the University of Ilorin.
The theme of the conference is entitled: “Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Achieve United Nations Sustainable Development Goals”.
According to her, plastics dumped in the sea account for about 5 percent while 95 percent of plastics are submerged beneath water bodies.
The don lamented that these plastics strangle and destroy water creatures, adding that this also threatens the eco-system and causes flooding on humans.
Akinlabi however submitted that Artificial Intelligence (AI) can assist in achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
Speaking on the effect of plastic and its effect on the environment, she emphasized on the need for a smart manufacturing technology, which will ensure reducing, re-using and recycling of wastes.
She explained that technology can help to transform plastic waste to wealth.
“Studies have successfully shown that AI are capable of tracking and categorizing plastic waste on water bodies,” she said.
Also speaking, Professor Suvendi Rimer of the Department of Electrical Engineering Science, at the University of Johannesburg asserts that AI has the potential of improving healthcare.
She advised that African countries must be united and focus on biomedical devices tailored towards their needs.
Rimer added that the primary rule is to develop skilled workforce and practical training in development of biomedical devices such as new prosthesis.
Similarly, Mr Olufemi Arosanyin, a telecommunications expert and CEO of IHS Cameroon said technology has potential in helping on environmental impact and management.
According to him, technology can solve some of the local problems in Nigeria, and that the country still has problems with open defecation.
He explained that India which had similar challenges is using technology for solutions, adding that Nigeria can also take a cue.
In his address, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin noted that the theme of the conference is apt.
He pointed out that technology can help solve some of the global challenges, including poverty, peace and justice, environmental degradation and inequality.
Earlier in his welcoming address, Professor Jamiu Odusote, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology of the University of Ilorin disclosed that the Faculty created car servicing centre to help the community and train students with practical skills on mechatronics and automobile.
Also Prof. Nazmat Bakinde, the Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, stated that the 2024 conference reflects the commitment to explore the transformative potential of AI in addressing global challenges.
