AI and its influence on Sustainability

Sustainability 2024 – What’s the trend? (Part 4)

(In these series, we delve into some of the most significant trends, offering comprehensive insights into how they are shaping the future of corporate practices and environmental stewardship.)

AI and its influence on Sustainability

Some of us would remember last year as the year of Artificial Intelligence – and rightly so – for it  marked the introduction and rise of large language models such as ChatGPT, highlighting the transformative potential of AI.

The power of AI lies in its ability to analyze enormous data sets, identify patterns, classify objects, and make predictions. These capabilities are set to find increasing applications in the field of sustainability. A study commissioned by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in partnership with Microsoft predicts that AI for environmental applications could contribute a staggering 30 trillion USD to the global economy by 2030. Numbers of this magnitude underscore the significant impact AI could have on our world.

AI is a key enabling technology that could vastly improve energy efficiency and distribution. By optimizing how we use and distribute energy, AI can help reduce waste and lower carbon emissions. However, it's important to note that the implementation of AI is not without its challenges. There are ethical considerations to be addressed, and many scientists remain skeptical about certain aspects of AI.

Despite these concerns, with shared responsibility and collaboration among governments, academia, businesses, and other stakeholders, there is great potential for AI to play a transformational role in sustainable development. The combined efforts of these entities can help ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically, maximizing its benefits while mitigating potential risks.

One of the key strengths of Artificial Intelligence is its speed. AI enables rapid analysis of vast datasets, facilitating fast and accurate decision-making. As the global community grapples with sustainability issues, harnessing AI’s rapid capabilities will be crucial. The urgency of addressing these challenges cannot be overstated, and leveraging AI's efficiency can help us make significant strides in a limited timeframe.

(to be continued)