The Coca-Cola Company has joined the MIT Generative AI Impact Consortium as a founding member, alongside OpenAI, Analog Devices, Tata Group, SK Telecom, and TWG Global. The consortium links MIT researchers with industry partners to develop open-source AI solutions to global challenges.
As part of its participation, Coca-Cola has launched Project "Save the Orange," aimed at combating citrus greening, also known as Huanglongbing (HLB). The bacterial disease has no known cure and has severely affected global citrus production. Since emerging in 2004, HLB has infected nearly all of Florida's orange trees and has caused billions of dollars in losses to the citrus industry. Without advances in detection, management, and treatment, researchers warn that the global orange supply could be at risk within 25 years.
"Save the Orange" is being carried out in collaboration with Brazil-based Fundecitrus and Invaio Sciences. The initiative brings together expertise from AgriTech, Biotech, Data Science, Life Sciences, and Public Policy. Research has already begun with the involvement of MIT professors and industry specialists.
"As a leading provider of fruit juice worldwide, we have a unique perspective on the critical issue of citrus greening. In these challenging times, we stand with the orange farming community and are closely collaborating with Brazil-based research lab Fundecitrus to find a viable solution," said Christina Ruggiero, President, Global Nutrition Category at The Coca-Cola Company.
Antonio Juliano Ayres, Executive Director of Fundecitrus, stated: "Citrus greening is one of the greatest threats to global citrus production, demanding urgent and collaborative action. Through the 'Save the Orange' partnership with The Coca-Cola Company, Fundecitrus reaffirms its long-standing commitment to science-driven solutions, transparency, and innovation."
Amy O'Shea, CEO of Invaio Sciences, added: "We have an unwavering commitment to developing effective solutions for citrus growers in the fight against HLB. We've seen firsthand the devastation of this disease and the proven efficacy of our Trecise treatment in stopping it. Treatments and application technologies will be critical components of a multi-pronged coordinated effort to restore tree health, citrus production, and farmer profitability."
Generative AI is being used to compress research timelines, with the project modeled on collaborative hackathons. According to Pratik Thakar, Global Vice President and Head of Generative AI at Coca-Cola, "Citrus greening has impacted farmers for over 15 years; now it's high time to combine Generative AI with AgriTech, Biotech, and Life Science to accelerate research and innovation."
For more information:
The Coca‑Cola Company
Tel: +1 888 348 2404
Email: [email protected]
www.coca-colacompany.com
