Something extraordinary is happening on the internet. Independent developers, researchers and investigative communities are creating platforms that allow ordinary people to explore the destruction of forests, follow the financial connections behind war, examine evidence of atrocities, trace industrial pollution and monitor activity across the world’s oceans. Information once reserved for governments, specialists and major institutions is becoming available to anyone with an internet connection.

When applied purposefully, AI can transform climate action by optimizing power grids, accelerating weather forecasting, and tracking greenhouse gas emissions in real time. Through initiatives like Climate TRACE, satellite imagery and AI algorithms are combined to deliver precise, asset-level emissions data that enables cities and nations to build actionable climate strategies decades faster than previously possible.

As Zambia aims to triple its copper production to power the global green transition, the environmental and human health impacts on the Copperbelt Province are coming into sharp focus. Climate TRACE data reveals how emissions and PM₂.₅ pollution affect over 3 million residents in industrial hubs like Kitwe and Ndola, and how transparent data can help chart a cleaner path forward for Africa’s mining heartland.