Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Decisions

Abstract

When addressing corporate sustainability challenges, artificial intelligence (AI) is a double-edged sword. AI can make significant progress on the most complicated environmental and social problems faced by humans. On the other hand, the efficiencies and innovations generated by AI may also bring new risks, such as automated bias and conflicts with human ethics. We argue that companies and governments should make collective efforts to address sustainability challenges and risks brought by AI. Accountable and sustainable AI can be achieved through a proactive regulatory framework supported by rigorous corporate policies and reports. Given the rapidly evolving nature of this technology, we propose a harmonised and risk-based regulatory approach that accommodates diverse AI solutions to achieve the common good. Ensuring an adequate level of technological neutrality and proportionality of the regulation is the key to mitigating the wide range of potential risks inherent to the use of AI. Instead of promoting sustainability, unregulated AI would be a threat since it would not be possible to effectively monitor its effects on the economy, society and environment. Such a suitable regulatory framework would not only create a consensus concerning the risks to avoid and how to do so but also include enforcement mechanisms to ensure a trustworthy and ethical use of AI in the boardroom. Once this objective is achieved, it will be possible to refer to this technological development as a common good in itself that constitutes an essential asset to human development.

The Environmental Impacts of AI and Digital Technologies

“…Our study contributes to clarifying this role, reinforcing the need for a clearer understanding articulated by Yigitcanlar (2021) (Yigitcanlar, 2021). In line with Zhao & Farinas (2022), our research also highlights AI's potential to address complex environmental challenges, suggesting that AI can play a significant role in tackling global sustainability issues (Zhao & Fariñas, 2022).…”

“…Despite AI's recognized potential to tackle complex environmental and social challenges, discussions on its ecological sustainability have lagged behind those on its societal impact. This gap in discourse highlights a critical need for a comprehensive examination of AI's environmental footprint, promoting a balanced view of AI's role in achieving global sustainability goals (Zhao & Fariñas, 2022). The evolving conversation around sustainable AI, once centered predominantly on social concerns such as bias and explainability, now increasingly encompasses ecological sustainability.…”

Harnessing the Power of Artificial Intelligence in Climate Change Mitigation: Opportunities and Challenges for Public Health

“…By involving scientists, policymakers, economists, social scientists, and other stakeholders, we can integrate diverse perspectives, knowledge, and expertise into AI based climate solutions. This interdisciplinary collaboration will allow for a holistic understanding of climate change challenges and the development of innovative, integrated solutions [25].…”

Does Pakistan's Copyright and Antitrust Law Protect Creators of AI-Generated Content? A Comparative Study with European Union Jurisdictions

“…If a reservation has been made in a proper manner, then the use of those materials is prohibited under the exception for AC development. If a substantial number of copyright holders express reservations, the ability to utilize materials for AC development is thus restricted (Zhao & Gómez Fariñas, 2023). It might be difficult to determine the lack of a legally enforceable reservation when comprehensive training materials are used.…”