Machine Learning: New Ideas and Tools in Environmental Science and Engineering

Shifa Zhong, Kai Zhang, Majid Bagheri, Joel G. Burken, April Gu, Baikun Li, Xingmao Ma, Babetta L. Marrone, Zhiyong Jason Ren, Joshua Schrier, Wei Shi, Haoyue Tan, Tianbao Wang, Xu Wang, Bryan M. Wong, Xusheng Xiao, Xiong Yu, Jun Jie Zhu, Huichun Zhang

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

530 Scopus citations

Abstract

The rapid increase in both the quantity and complexity of data that are being generated daily in the field of environmental science and engineering (ESE) demands accompanied advancement in data analytics. Advanced data analysis approaches, such as machine learning (ML), have become indispensable tools for revealing hidden patterns or deducing correlations for which conventional analytical methods face limitations or challenges. However, ML concepts and practices have not been widely utilized by researchers in ESE. This feature explores the potential of ML to revolutionize data analysis and modeling in the ESE field, and covers the essential knowledge needed for such applications. First, we use five examples to illustrate how ML addresses complex ESE problems. We then summarize four major types of applications of ML in ESE: making predictions; extracting feature importance; detecting anomalies; and discovering new materials or chemicals. Next, we introduce the essential knowledge required and current shortcomings in ML applications in ESE, with a focus on three important but often overlooked components when applying ML: correct model development, proper model interpretation, and sound applicability analysis. Finally, we discuss challenges and future opportunities in the application of ML tools in ESE to highlight the potential of ML in this field.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)12741-12754
Number of pages14
JournalEnvironmental Science and Technology
Volume55
Issue number19
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 5 2021
Externally publishedYes

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Chemistry
  • Environmental Chemistry

Keywords

  • applicability domain
  • artificial intelligence
  • best practices
  • feature importance
  • machine learning modeling
  • model applications
  • model interpretation
  • predictive modeling

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