New AI method revolutionizes urban green space mapping

A team of researchers led by NYU Tandon has developed "green augmentation," an AI method that analyzes Google Earth satellite images to identify urban vegetation with 89.4% accuracy, a significant improvement over current methods. "Our system learns to recognize more subtle patterns that distinguish trees from grass, even in challenging urban environments," said Associate Professor Rumi Chunara, the team leader. This technology helps urban planners identify neighborhoods lacking green spaces, which provide health benefits, combat climate change, create wildlife habitats, and encourage social interaction.