Esri, Microsoft Partner to Provide Technology Support for Environmental Conservationists

Esri and Microsoft have jointly established a grant process to provide mapping and artificial intelligence tools to environmental conservationists.

Eligible organizations and individuals can apply through the grant process to gain access to Esri’s ArcGIS geographic information system software and Microsoft’s cloud and AI platforms, Esri said Wednesday.

“Understanding environmental data in the context of location is necessary when making decisions about protecting fragile ecosystems,” said Jack Dangermond, Esri founder and president.

Microsoft’s AI tool will also integrate with Esri’s ArcGIS Image Server and Living Atlas of the World — a collection of global geographic information — to support image classification and provide insight into land cover changes.

The two companies previously supported a watershed restoration effort led by non-profit organization Chesapeake Conservancy.

Chesapeake Conservancy used Esri’s mapping technology, powered by Microsoft’s Azure cloud platform, to identify areas where plantings would be most effective.