Issue

‘The Cloud’ Isn’t in the Sky

For all the talk of artificial intelligence and web-based technologies in ethereal terms, they exist very much in the terrestrial plains and consume massive amounts of natural resources.

Artificial intelligence is ubiquitous, transforming how we work, learn, interact, and relax. As computer scientist and entrepreneur Ray Kurzweil wrote in The Futurist in 2013, “If all the AI systems decided to go on strike tomorrow, our civilization would be crippled.” That was an eon ago in AI years. Imagine what it would be like today, 12 years later.

If you use a smartphone, engage on social media, stream music or movies, or shop online, you interact continually with AI. It automates processes, inspires innovation, boosts economies, and tackles global challenges. AI grabs headlines for its potential as well as its risks.

Beyond everyday consumer uses, many technology leaders expect AI to help solve our most pressing societal issues, such as health care access, education inequities, global food insecurities, disaster response, and even fraud and cybersecurity concerns. Still others see AI as a long-awaited solution to climate change.

As heavily reported, we are nearing the global warming threshold determined by the United Nations Paris Climate Accord of 1.5 degrees celsius above pre-industrial levels. Will AI help us find sustainable solutions to combat climate change? Or will it worsen the issue by the strain it places on our environment through high energy and resource consumption?

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This story is from Common Good issue
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