AI has the potential to play a crucial role in combating climate change and addressing social injustices, but there are concerns about its environmental impact and equitable distribution.
Artificial intelligence (AI) technology can help humans use resources more efficiently, predict extreme weather events, and be better prepared to tackle the effects of climate change.
However, before implementing AI in these ways, tech companies must undergo intensive training and expand data centers to support these systems, which can have significant environmental impacts.
A study from UC Riverside suggests that tech companies are not doing enough to ensure equitable distribution of these environmental impacts. Instead, they are following patterns seen in the fossil fuel industry, disproportionately affecting regions already facing resource challenges. Researchers stress the importance of developing AI in an environmentally sustainable and equitable manner to maximize its benefits.
Organizations worldwide are calling for policies to prioritize these principles in AI development.
