By Wong Kam-fai
The application of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has gained significant attention in the global business industry. Many companies are leveraging ChatGPT technology to enhance their digital services and improve customer experiences. For instance, Microsoft has utilized ChatGPT to enhance the functionality of its Bing search engine.
ChatGPT can be considered an upgraded version of a conversational robot platform, as it takes user queries or prompts and generates appropriate responses. It uses natural language processing and machine learning techniques to understand and generate humanlike text.
While AI scientists have been working toward creating machines that can mimic human intelligence and capabilities, the goal of “machines replacing humans” remains a subject of debate. AI chatbots are commonly used as tools for human-machine dialogue, particularly in online customer service for businesses. However, some scientists have suggested that AI chatbot technology can extend beyond human conversations.
In addition to handling human interactions, public chatbots could potentially be programmed to recognize and respond to other types of sounds, such as animal sounds.
Recently, the author had the opportunity to attend an international conference on Natural Language Processing, where the keynote speech titled “Can We Hear You? Models for Listening in the Animal Kingdoms and Scientific Communities” was delivered by the president of the Earth Species Project (ESP), a nonprofit organization based in the United States.

In his speech, the speaker highlighted how ESP utilizes AI technology to identify and decipher the sounds produced by various animal species. The organization aims to understand how animals use their vocalizations to communicate and analyze the messages conveyed through these sounds. For instance, primates like monkeys and orangutans emit different alert calls to warn their fellow animals about potential predators. Similarly, dolphins are known to recognize each other by their unique whistling sounds.
Furthermore, the speaker discussed how ESP scientists are leveraging AI to generate new sounds, including mimicking the vocalizations of humpback whales. By creating these artificial sounds, researchers can test the responses of animals and explore AI’s ability to recognize both random and “semantic” changes in their vocalizations. This innovative approach allows scientists to gain insights into the communication patterns and capabilities of different species.
Another focus of ESP’s research involves the development of a novel method that utilizes deep-learning techniques to determine the number of distinct vocalizations an animal produces. This method has practical applications in tracking endangered species, such as Hawaiian crows, which can only be bred in captivity. By analyzing existing data and identifying the calls that have been lost in captivity, researchers can design effective programs for reintroducing and adapting these species to their natural habitats.

In summary, ESP is engaged in pioneering research in the field of alternative natural-language processing. It employs innovative technologies to identify and comprehend nonhuman languages with the primary goal of advancing biological research and conservation efforts. This research endeavor is highly significant, as it contributes to a customized conservation project aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal.
In his report to the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature as a key aspect of Chinese-style modernization. He outlined strategic plans to promote green development and foster a harmonious relationship between human and nature. Scientists have emphasized the importance of aligning human economic activities not only with objective economic laws but also with the principles of natural ecological balance and the law of material cycles.
Indeed, science knows no boundaries, and the mission of ESP aligns with the development goal of Chinese modernization in promoting the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature. As highlighted in the previous scientific research projects discussed, AI serves as a platform for facilitating a profound connection between human and nature, including the intricate ecology of species.

The author is a member of the Legislative Council, Deputy Dean (External Affairs) of the Faculty of Engineering of the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of BAUHINIA MAGAZINE.

Source：China Daily