The Role of Artificial Intelligence in sustainability in key sectors of the Portuguese economy
Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a transformative role in driving sustainability across key sectors of the Portuguese economy. By integrating data, sensors, predictive algorithms (algorithms capable of forecasting near-future events, e.g., a bearing failure) and automation, AI enables more efficient decisions, waste reduction and improved environmental monitoring — fundamental pillars for green business. Below are specific opportunities across the mentioned sectors:
1. Paper, Pulp and Forestry Industry
Optimised use of forest resources: AI can analyse satellite and drone imagery to map plantation health (e.g., eucalyptus), predict growth, and identify pests or water stress before they become critical.
Carbon management: AI models can accurately estimate carbon sequestration in forest stands, supporting voluntary certification (e.g., VCS, Gold Standard) and carbon-credit strategies.
Industrial efficiency: In pulp and paper factories, predictive algorithms adjust water, energy and chemical consumption in real time, reducing emissions and waste.
Practical example: Projects in Portugal already use AI with drones to monitor eucalyptus clones and correlate chlorophyll with biomass, useful for validating carbon sequestration.
2. Livestock (Poultry, Swine, Cattle)
Reducing methane emissions: Sensors combined with AI monitor diet, digestion and animal behaviour, enabling nutritional adjustments that reduce methane production (especially in cattle).
Waste management: Intelligent systems optimise manure treatment, converting it into biogas or biofertilisers with lower environmental impact.
Animal welfare and efficiency: AI detects early signs of disease or stress, reducing antibiotic use and losses, while improving feed conversion.
Opportunity in Portugal: Integration with regenerative agriculture systems, where AI data guides pasture rotation and sustainable stocking rates.
3. Olive Oil and Oliviculture
Precision irrigation and harvesting: AI analyses climatic data, soil moisture and fruit maturity to schedule drip irrigation and optimal harvesting time, saving water and maximising yield.
Disease detection: Computer-vision models identify early signs of Xylella fastidiosa or peacock spot from field imagery.
Traceability and sustainability: Blockchain + AI can track the entire olive-oil cycle, from grove to consumer, ensuring sustainable and fair practices, adding export value.
Potential in Portugal: Algarve and Alentejo can leverage AI to transition toward low-carbon olive production.
4. Cork Industry
Monitoring cork oak forests (montado): AI processes aerial images to assess tree health, canopy density and fire risk, protecting this unique ecosystem.
Optimised extraction: Algorithms help determine the ideal timing for cork harvesting, respecting biological cycles and maximising quality.
Waste reduction in production: Computer vision automatically classifies cork planks by quality, directing residues to biochar, thermal insulation or other circular uses.
Competitive advantage: Portugal holds more than 50% of global cork production; AI can reinforce this leadership through sustainability labels based on verifiable data.
AI as a driver of value
When aligned with environmental goals, AI not only improves operational efficiency but also creates value through:
- reduced carbon footprint and resource consumption
- compliance with EU regulations (e.g., CSRD, EU Taxonomy)
- access to green financing and premium markets
In Portugal — where forestry, agriculture, livestock and cork industries remain economically and ecologically strategic — the smart adoption of AI can position national companies as European leaders in green business, especially with the support of programmes such as Portugal 2030, Horizon Europe and climate-innovation initiatives.
Do you want to know more about support in this area? Contact us: comercial@theventurebuilder.pt