Everyone is talking about artificial intelligence (AI) – the new developments, the unearthed fears, and the impact on society. What they haven’t mentioned much is the environmental impact of AI. New Scientist brought this interesting information to our attention in their article, “Artificial intelligence training is powered mostly by fossil fuels.“
AI has been cited as a potential tool for combatting climate change. Technology companies, however, need to do more to prevent AI from becoming a source of environmental degradation. Currently AI training is powered mostly by fossil fuels. Less than 25 per cent of AIs use low-carbon energy sources such as hydroelectricity and nuclear power during training.
AI is mostly presented in binary terms both in popular culture and in political analysis. It either represents the key to a futuristic utopia, or it is the first step toward a dystopian rise of machines. This same binary thinking is found among academics, entrepreneurs, and even activists in relation to the application of AI in combating climate change.
The development of AI technology is a symbol of incredible progress. Progress, however, is not one size fits all, and the companies developing these technologies have a responsibility to ensure that marginalized communities do not bear the brunt of the negative side effects of the AI revolution.
Melody K. Smith
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