Decarbonizing the Underground:  AI/ML for Cleaner Capital Projects

In the face of escalating environmental concerns, the need for sustainable practices in the field of civil engineering has never been more critical. This presentation will focus on how the innovative use of artificial intelligence technology can significantly reduce the carbon impact of major infrastructure projects through accurate non-intrusive underground mapping, especially as communities across the U.S. conduct massive infrastructure improvements thanks to new funding from the Biden administration.  

New AI/ML-driven mapping technology addresses a key aspect of infrastructure projects – accurately locating underground utilities, bedrock, and other obstacles. Traditional methods of underground exploration often lead to unnecessary excavation and exploratory drilling, resulting in significant carbon emissions. New technology leverages artificial intelligence to provide a precise view of what lies beneath the surface, thereby reducing the need for such environmentally damaging practices 1 . 

In this session, Lindsey Collins, US Transportation Lead for subsurface mapping provider Exodigo, will be joined by a state transportation agency (to be confirmed) to discuss real-world results. We will also explore how advanced AI/ML technology provides a safer, more sustainable way for companies to plan and execute projects, ultimately leading to time, money, and significant carbon footprint savings 1 . 

Our presentation will underscore the importance of accurately mapping the underground as early in the project as possible. We believe that starting large capital projects with the best underground data from Day 1 delivers unprecedented sustainability benefits. 

Join us as we delve into the future of climate-conscious construction and public infrastructure project risk management using AI to eliminate underground unknowns.