AI is becoming ever increasingly integrated into our everyday lives. Its use within the EIA process presents both an opportunity as well as a risk if not used appropriately or within guidelines.

In this talk Peter Hurley and Preeyus Patel will delve into what we mean by AI and a high level overview on large language models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and its limitations. With a better understanding of the current capabilities, we will then shift the focus onto where in the EIA process these tools can be of most use and how that aligns with current policy.

Speakers

Peter Hurley

Peter Hurley is a Senior Data Scientist in AECOM's Digital Environment team, where he develops machine learning solutions for environmental domains. He has co-authored over 30 applied machine learning publications spanning fields including astrophysics, neuroimaging, and environmental science.

At AECOM, Peter leads the development of data models and optimization tools for EcoUplift, AECOM's natural capital assessment platform. His recent work includes developing pipelines for species connectivity modelling and deploying them at scale and is currently developing Large Language Model agent-based approaches to assist teams throughout AECOM's Environment group.

Preeyus Patel

Preeyus is an Associate Director working in the Environment and Sustainability team within AECOM. He has extensive experience in delivering EIAs, stakeholder engagement and strategic advice to clients on nationally significant development and infrastructure projects across the UK. This has included working on major infrastructure projects with HS2, Network Rail and National Highways as well as major regeneration projects with DP World and Nicolas James Group.  Prior to delivering EIAs and stakeholder engagement for clients, Preeyus worked as an ecologist, undertaking ecological impact assessments, and started his career in environmental law and policy where he focused on renewing environmental policy with UK Government. During his career Preeyus has worked as Director of Environment for Welsh Government and worked in the House of Lords and House of Commons Select Committees.