Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to tackle the climate crisis, but it also comes with challenges. Martin Krause, a Director at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), recently shared insights on this issue. He pointed out that while AI can offer solutions, it also requires a lot of energy and water, which could add to environmental problems if not managed wisely.
Krause cited examples of AI helping with climate solutions, like advanced weather warnings for floods and storms. He emphasized that AI can improve accuracy and protect millions of lives. AI is also playing a role in better integrating renewable energy into power grids, such as in India, where it’s being used to balance energy supply and demand efficiently.
However, the energy consumption of AI data centers is a significant concern. Krause stressed the need for these centers to shift to renewable energy to prevent an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Assessing local resources is vital for determining the best energy mix for powering these facilities.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed these concerns, urging that data centers must transition to clean energy, avoiding a situation where vulnerable communities bear the costs of increased demand.
The UNEP recently passed a resolution that encourages countries and stakeholders to promote sustainable AI practices. This includes leveraging AI’s benefits while minimizing its negative impacts on the environment. As the technology continues to evolve, balancing AI’s benefits with responsible resource use will be crucial.
In a related note, a study found that nearly 60% of people are concerned about the environmental impact of AI. This sentiment reflects a growing awareness of sustainability issues as technology advances.
As we move forward, it’s clear that while AI holds promise for climate action, it must be implemented carefully to ensure it supports, rather than undermines, environmental goals. For more details, check out the UNEP’s recent report on sustainable AI use.
Source link
infotainment
