Jakarta, INTI - Engineers in Japan are developing an artificial intelligence (AI) system designed to identify trees that are at risk of falling or shedding large branches, aiming to improve public safety in parks, streets, and other public spaces.
The initiative comes as Japan faces a growing number of aging trees while experiencing a shortage of certified arborists and tree specialists responsible for conducting routine inspections.
The AI system currently evaluates the condition of zelkova and cherry (sakura) trees, with plans to expand its capabilities to additional species, including ginkgo.
According to Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, 1,732 tree-related incidents occurred in parks and along roads between April 2021 and November 2024, with 110 cases resulting in injuries or fatalities.
AI and Drones Enhance Tree Risk Assessment
Several companies are contributing to the development of AI-powered inspection technologies. Optim Corp., in partnership with Kyuden Droneservice Co., is developing a drone-based AI system capable of identifying dead or hazardous trees from the air.
Meanwhile, Sumitomo Mitsui Construction Co. is creating an AI platform that analyzes tree photographs captured using smartphones or tablets, enabling faster and more accessible inspections.
The system, known as Tree AI, compares images of tree trunks and branches against tens of thousands of reference photos and expert diagnoses from certified tree specialists. It then classifies the likelihood of tree failure using a four-level risk assessment scale.
Tree specialist Hidemi Kataoka, who is involved in the project, explained that trees with internal cavities or fungal decay are more likely to collapse, conditions that are often difficult for non-experts to identify.
Local Governments Begin Real-Word Trials
Several local governments, including Kizugawa City in Kyoto Prefecture, Miyakonojo City in Miyazaki Prefecture, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, have begun testing the AI system as part of their urban tree management programs.
Officials believe the technology can make inspections more efficient, consistent, and scalable while addressing the shortage of qualified inspectors.
Sumitomo Mitsui Construction plans to launch the commercial version of its AI-powered tree inspection service during fiscal year 2027, helping municipalities manage urban forests more effectively through digital technology.
Conclusion
Japan's AI-powered tree inspection system demonstrates how artificial intelligence can enhance public safety and urban infrastructure management by enabling faster, more accurate detection of hazardous trees while reducing reliance on limited expert resources.
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