Could AI help protect Malaysia’s precious gaharu trees?

Gaharu, a highly prized wood for its aromatic resin, is produced by several species of Aquilaria trees native to Malaysia. The resin forms in these trees after experiencing fungal infection, injury or pest attacks. This rare and valuable wood is used to create oud fragrances, which are in high global demand. Unfortunately, this high demand has put pressure on wild Aquilaria populations, with some species like Aquilaria malaccensis being listed as Critically Endangered and Vulnerable.

To tackle this issue, researchers and fragrance companies are exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology to reproduce some of the scents traditionally obtained from rare plants without repeated harvesting. Companies like Osmo are developing AI systems that can predict how molecules will smell, which could help identify substitutes for difficult-to-source natural ingredients.

Additionally, biotechnology firms are growing plant cells in laboratories to produce fragrance compounds without cutting material from wild plants. While recreating rare scents in a laboratory might seem promising, experts caution that synthetic fragrance won't automatically protect threatened trees. Demand for authentic natural ingredients may remain even when convincing substitutes become available.

However, if AI and biotechnology can supply some of the fragrance compounds currently taken from vulnerable species, they could potentially reduce the pressure on wild Aquilaria populations. For Malaysia's gaharu trees, this could be a useful part of the solution, but it won't replace the need for conservation efforts in protecting forests, preventing illegal harvesting, and preserving the wider ecosystems in which these threatened plants grow.