In a collaborative study conducted by Microsoft and PwC in 2019, it was projected that the responsible integration of Artificial intelligence (AI) could potentially result in a significant 4% reduction (equivalent to 2.4 gigatonnes) in global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by the year 2030. This will boost global GDP by up to US $5 trillion and create up to 38 million jobs by 2030. By taking advantage of AI-driven insights, companies can identify waste, optimize resource usage, and develop eco-friendly products and services, contributing to environmental sustainability.

However, a study conducted by researchers at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, analyzed the environmental impact of training several widely used large AI models through a life cycle assessment. Their findings revealed that this process can result in emissions exceeding 626,000 pounds of carbon dioxide equivalent. To put this into perspective, it’s nearly five times the lifetime emissions of an average American car, including the manufacturing phase of the vehicle.

Green Initiatives in AI Development, Deployment and Use
Companies can take the following steps to ensure sustainable AI

  • Invest in energy-efficient infrastructure.
  • Optimize AI algorithms to reduce energy consumption.
  • Implement green computing practices, such as server virtualization and energy-saving modes.
  • Use renewable energy sources to power AI operations.
  • Design AI systems with energy efficiency in mind, minimizing resource-intensive processes.
  • Monitor environmental impact through data tracking and analysis.
  • Collaborate with industry and government stakeholders to develop and adhere to environmental sustainability standards and regulations.

Some Leading Global Laws and Regulations

In the European Union, the European Green Deal, by the European Commission, sets ambitious goals for carbon neutrality by 2050, pushing for initiatives to include AI in environmental sustainability efforts.

In the United States, legislation such as the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act indirectly influence AI development, deploymant and use by promoting clean energy technologies and sustainable resource management practices. 

As AI continues to advance, we anticipate the introduction of more specific laws and regulations to govern its responsible use.

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