Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the power to tackle the climate crisis, but it also poses challenges that need careful management. Martin Krause, a senior figure at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), emphasizes this dual nature of AI.
In a recent interview, Krause highlighted the benefits of AI in predicting severe weather. Advanced warning systems can forecast floods and storms more accurately, potentially saving millions of lives. He noted how AI helps integrate renewable energy in countries like India. By balancing power flows, AI makes it easier to use intermittent sources like solar and wind.
However, there’s a flip side. Krause pointed out that AI requires significant amounts of energy and water, especially in its data centers. If these centers rely on fossil fuels, they could contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. He stresses that moving to renewable energy is crucial to avoid harming the environment further.
This concern is gaining traction within the UN. In 2025, the United Nations Environment Assembly adopted a resolution focusing on the sustainable use of AI. Secretary-General António Guterres has also urged data centers to use clean energy to prevent shifting environmental burdens onto vulnerable communities.
Recent studies back these points. A 2023 report showed that AI could help reduce carbon emissions by over 20% if powered by renewables. Public sentiment reflects this awareness, with many social media users advocating for environmentally conscious tech solutions.
In short, AI offers significant opportunities to combat climate issues, but its high resource demands require smart management. For more about AI’s role in climate, you can read more at the UNEP’s official site.
