Artificial Intelligence: A tool for transforming climate action

Correspondent: Abhishek Mukhopadhyay

“The real problem is not whether machines think but whether men do,” observed B.F. Skinner.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has undoubtedly transformed the universe, entwining its way into every facet of modern life. From voice assistants like Siri and Alexa to elaborate algorithms that power self-driving cars, AI gives a new snapshot of industries, economies, and the environment. To understand AI’s soul, imagine it is the brain behind everyday marvels- just like Iron Man’s loyal household butler, Edwin Jarvis, AI is not only a tool but a partner in our crusade to solve complex problems.
So, what is AI?
At its core, AI imitates human intelligence, enabling machines to learn from experience and carry out tasks previously exclusive to human comprehension. It’s like the auto-correct function on your smartphone but supercharged. It is like Google Maps, which uses real-time data to adjust and plan your travel route; AI uses patterns, logic, and reasoning to make decisions, very much like a human being.
By 2030, AI is projected to contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy. However, like the double-edged razor blade that your Dad used, while AI has the potential to revolutionise various sectors, its environmental impact cannot be ignored.
What is AI meant for?
AI is designed to boost our capabilities and one critical area where it demonstrates its superpowers is environmental protection. AI helps track weather changes, identify new pollution patterns, and manage agricultural systems for greater efficiency. We can cite the example of AI-enabled sensors used in precision farming to monitor crop health and maximise water usage, resulting in higher yields and reduced waste. Furthermore, AI can predict climate obstacles, analyse massive environmental datasets, and optimise renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.
AI’s Contribution to Environmental Sustainability
AI has proven irreplaceable in safeguarding the environment. It offers deep insights into our ecological systems and complements crucial efforts, such as monitoring melting icebergs and marine life conservation. AI-driven systems can foretell natural disasters, ensuring better preparedness for catastrophic events. Additionally, AI improves supply chain management by maximising routes, reducing emissions, and boosting recycling processes.
From uplifting energy efficiency to refining climate models, AI plays a crucial role in our ongoing battle against climate change. By analysing complicated statistics, AI enhances renewable energy systems, ensuring maximum output with minimal waste.
AI’s Negative Environmental Impact
However, every revolution comes at a price. AI’s damage is most evident in its massive carbon footprint. Data centres, the veins that carry AI’s blood, require enormous energy to operate. The e-waste generated by antique rotting systems adds another layer to AI’s environmental burden.
The Harvard Business Review illustrates this discrepancy vividly: in 2022, Google operated its data centre in Finland on 97% carbon-free energy. However, the number slipped down to 4-18% for its centres in Asia, throwing focus on the local consumption of fossil fuels and the resulting pollution.
Additionally, the lack of transparency and accountability in AI’s energy usage presents extra challenges. AI’s growing data storage needs, alongside potential system errors and miscalculations, add to environmental degradation, impacting ecosystems and creating more e-waste.
Steps to Counter AI’s Negative Impacts

To face AI’s environmental downsides and toxicity, we must adopt energy-efficient algorithms and advanced cooling technologies in data centres. A shift towards renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, is also essential. Moreover, advocating for transparency in reporting AI’s energy consumption and environmental impact will foster responsible usage.
Conclusion
AI is undeniably a game changer, but balancing its benefits with its environmental impact is essential. By striving toward an environmentally responsible AI, we can harness its potential without exacerbating our ecological crisis. As author Stewart Brand wisely noted, “We are as gods and might as well get good at it.” If we are to wield the power of AI, it must be driven and piloted with responsibility and care, ensuring a sustainable future that can be left behind for our kids and the planet.