The availability of large volume of imagery at high spatio-temporal resolutions along with the advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have enabled implementation of near real-time analytics and modeling approaches to inform decisions in different application areas – health to disasters. While the convergence of AI and remote sensing has opened up opportunities to ensure effective and prompt decision making, they are also posing ethical and legal challenges from the perspective of usability, transparency, privacy and cybersecurity, and effectiveness. With increased focus on achieving equity and justice, it is also crucial to understand the extent to which AI derived algorithms are not only unbiased but also equitable. Drawing on the research conducted in public and private sectors, this session will be a forum to discuss (i) major concerns in different application areas, (ii) potential impacts to decision making, (iii) existing policies and guidelines, and (iv) future research and development initiatives.
