Will AI solve the climate crisis?
The climate crisis presents an extraordinary challenge, demanding innovative solutions. In this context, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a tool, opening new avenues for environmental sustainability. But aside from its potential to address climate change, numerous challenges need to be overcome before AI can save the planet.
AI's Potential in Climate Action
AI's application in climate action is diverse and impactful. According to research done by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG)*, it is capable of reducing emissions significantly by
optimizing energy use,
predicting maintenance in industrial sectors,
and enhancing renewable energy systems.
AI was also highlighted for its role in guiding adaptations to climate impacts, like predicting weather patterns and managing water resources efficiently.
Challenges
Despite its potential, AI's role in combating climate change is not without challenges. What currently prevents businesses from making use of AI in their sustainability activities are
a lack of AI expertise (78% of leaders cited this issue),
limited availability of AI solutions (77%), and
doubts about the reliability of AI data and analysis (67%).
While these challenges hint at the potential impact AI could have, they also reveal issues in implementing these new technologies into current processes.
Governmental Role
This is where government intervention comes into play. 67% of private-sector leaders seek more governmental support. This includes funding, policy frameworks, and incentives for sustainable AI applications. Moreover, there's a growing awareness of the need for environmentally responsible AI deployment, considering its energy usage and resource demands.
AI's Contribution to Emission Reduction
One of the most promising areas for AI in climate action is emission reduction. AI can analyze large data sets to identify emission hotspots, optimize energy use in manufacturing, and enhance the efficiency of transportation systems. Thus, it can not only measure emissions but also help reduce them, creating tremendous tangible value for businesses. Research indicates AI could cut global GHG emissions by 5-10% by 2030.
This potential of AI in emission reduction is not just theoretical.
At BeWo, we've embodied this potential through our AI-powered emission reporting platform, largely thanks to our co-founder's specialization in AI technology. His expertise has been crucial in overcoming challenges related to AI proficiency and technology availability. Our platform exemplifies AI's practical application in climate action, serving as a real-world demonstration of how AI's theoretical strengths can be translated into concrete contributions to climate goals.
Outlook
Evidently, AI holds immense promise in the fight against climate change. Its capabilities in data analysis, prediction, and optimization can significantly contribute to sustainable practices and policy decisions. However, realizing this potential requires overcoming current challenges like expertise gaps and technology availability as well as ensuring AI's deployment is environmentally responsible. With ongoing advancements in technology, increased governmental support, and a focus on sustainable practices, AI could become a cornerstone in efforts to mitigate climate change. The journey ahead involves not only technological innovation but also collaboration across sectors and disciplines to harness AI's full potential for a sustainable future.