Expert Training | AI-based Boundary Recognition and the AI4Biochar tool

This training session introduced participants to practical applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in environmental monitoring, with a focus on Earth Observation (EO) and Deep Learning techniques to support integrated land use planning for harmonious industrial and agricultural development. Organized in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the training aimed to build the capacity of Vietnamese experts through hands-on experience with an AI tool co-developed with the University of Twente and field-tested in Viet Nam in 2025.

The featured AI4biochar tool supported the development of sustainable biochar markets by identifying crop field boundaries, estimating biochar requirements to maintain soil fertility, and generating sustainability indicators for each field or farm. These insights were enriched with data on biomass residue availability from food processing facilities (e.g., rice mills, agro-industrial zones), helping to identify optimal locations for biochar production plants.

Participants were introduced to the fundamentals of Deep Learning and guided through practical exercises using cloud-based platforms such as Google Earth Engine and Google Colaboratory. They learned how to access, analyze, and process remote sensing data, and how to train and validate Deep Learning models for environmental applications.

Dedicated sessions covered:
i) A newly developed web interface for automated crop boundary detection;
ii) The AI4biochar calculator and its application in promoting sustainable land management.

Speakers:

• Mr. Le Truong Duy, General Director, Viet Nam C4IR
• Mr. Francesco Nicola Tubiello, FAO
• Mr. Alessandro Flammini, FAO
• Mr. Leon Casse, FAO
• Mr. Furkan Çelik, FAO and University of Twente
• Ms. Michelle Piccoli, FAO

The training concluded with an open discussion to collect participant feedback, identify use cases for integration into ongoing initiatives, and reflect on lessons learned. This training was ideal for professionals and researchers in agriculture, environmental science, and geospatial technologies who sought to expand their skills in AI-enabled solutions for sustainable development.

The AI4smallfarms and AI4biochar tools were developed with the generous support of the Government of Japan and the FAO Elevate initiative. This training was part of a collaborative effort between the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Viet Nam Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR). Trainees were selected from companies supported by C4IR, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing AI-driven solutions for sustainable agriculture and environmental management in Viet Nam.

 

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