How can artificial intelligence (AI) help save the environment? This could be a subject that will be discussed at COP26 when it kicks off in Glasgow on 31 Oct. AI technology is evolving rapidly, and many believe, including me, that it will be the key to making the world more sustainable in the future. The hope lies in its ability to reduce consumption of finite resources, lower energy costs, and improve water management, all of which are necessary if we are to stave off environmental catastrophe in the coming decades. Here’s my take on how AI could play a role in this vital transformation of society and the world at large.
So what is AI?
What exactly is AI, and how does it work? It’s a question that I am often asked. Artificial Intelligence, or AI, simply put, is a computer system that has been programmed to complete tasks that generally require human thought and reasoning. There are many different types of AI, such as Narrow AI (sometimes called Weak AI), which is designed to solve a specific problem like Siri, and Strong AI (sometimes called Artificial General Intelligence or AGI), which is designed to mimic human consciousness.
Artificial Intelligence and Sustainability
It’s not surprising that two buzzwords like artificial intelligence and sustainability are increasingly overlapping. Businesses, governments, and individuals alike all want to do their part to fight climate change, but few truly understand what it means to be sustainable. As AI continues its rapid development over the next decade or so, I think we’ll see it play a huge role in creating a more sustainable society.
How Can AI Help Reduce Energy Costs?
According to recent statistics, only 29% of companies feel they’re positively impacting their local and global communities. If you’re in that group that wants to improve its social and environmental contributions, it might be time to harness technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Here are five ways AI is impacting energy costs for businesses.
1.) Use AI-powered apps to cut down on excessive energy consumption.
2.) Implement an IT infrastructure with sensors that monitor internal resources like water or energy usage, then using machine learning algorithms to streamline internal systems.
3.) Use AI-powered robotic equipment for a more efficient operation and a reduction in employee costs.
4.) Analyze big data from social media and other online platforms that allow you to optimize environmental impact through your business.
5.) Don’t forget about your employees; make sure they’re giving back as well! Start by integrating sustainability efforts into employee benefits such as wellness programs or reimbursement for public transportation expenses.
Published on: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-can-artificial-intelligence-ai-help-save-environment-jane-ren/ (opens in a new tab)