Environmental groups embrace AI, even as they warn of data centre impacts

Detailed summary

Artificial intelligence is enabling work that was previously difficult, expensive or impossible. Read more at straitstimes.com.

Kenyan researchers from a Save the Elephants research camp operate a surveillance drone at the Samburu National Reserve in Kenya.

WASHINGTON – Environmental groups worldwide are using artificial intelligence to analyse climate data, track forest fires and count endangered wildlife – embracing a technology they also warn is driving a surge in electricity demand, water use and greenhouse-gas emissions.

The contradiction is forcing these organisations to justify their AI use in carrying out missions to combat climate change or protect natural resources.

“We recognise that AI can come with environmental costs, and we need to be thoughtful about how we use it,” said Ali Swanson, AI lead at the US non-profit Conservation International.

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