Artificial intelligence, while itself a contributor to carbon emissions due to the energy-intensive nature of training large models, is increasingly being used to mitigate climate change. AI excels at analysing extensive datasets to identify patterns and solutions for reducing carbon footprints, a task that would be far more time-consuming and less efficient for humans. This includes optimising energy consumption in various industries, improving the efficiency of transportation systems, and accelerating the development of sustainable materials.
However, the deployment of AI for environmental purposes also necessitates a focus on reducing the carbon footprint of AI itself. Researchers are actively exploring methods to make AI models more energy-efficient, such as developing new algorithms and hardware that require less power. There's a growing awareness of the need for a holistic approach, where AI not only helps solve climate problems but also operates in an environmentally responsible manner. This involves considering the entire lifecycle of AI systems, from development to deployment, to minimise their overall impact on the planet.