Environmental groups have warned that claims stating artificial intelligence will aid in addressing the climate crisis are inaccurate. Instead, they caution that the technology is likely to boost energy consumption and propagate climate misinformation.
Although big tech companies and the United Nations have highlighted AI advancements as tools to combat global warming by monitoring deforestation, detecting pollution leaks, and tracking extreme weather events, a recent report questions the positive impact of AI on climate issues. Google, for example, has developed an AI program called Bard (now referred to as Gemini) to enhance traffic light efficiency and reduce emissions. According to a published report, AI could potentially decrease global emissions by 10% by 2030, equivalent to the entire carbon pollution emitted by the European Union.
However, concerns have been raised that the AI revolution could lead to increased energy consumption due to data centers and the spread of climate misinformation. The report highlights a potential 80% increase in global warming emissions from doubling data centers to keep pace with the rising demand for AI.
Critics argue that AI could exacerbate climate misinformation through social media platforms, further hindering efforts to tackle the climate emergency. Efforts to counter climate disinformation must be prioritized to combat the negative impact of AI on climate action.
Despite these challenges, some experts remain cautiously optimistic about the potential positive impact of AI on climate change. Transparency and accountability regarding energy usage are crucial for ensuring that AI contributes positively to addressing the climate crisis.
Source: www.theguardian.com
