
TOKYO Each year, Japan discards 6.4 million tons of food that is still edible, according to a government estimate. A Japanese weather services provider wants to cut down on that waste by unleashing the power of artificial intelligence.
The Japan Weather Association estimates that over 30% of industries are subject to weather-related risks, but the food sector is particularly susceptible. So it has partnered with retailers, food producers and other companies to develop a new system for predicting food demand. The system analyzes not only weather information but also sales data and other factors to project trends. This promises to help companies scale back excess production and reduce inventory losses.