Analysis on whether AI is a useful tool or a threat

The Paradox of AI for Sustainability: Tool or Threat?

AI is rapidly emerging as a powerful ally in solving our most pressing sustainability challenges, from optimizing renewable energy grids to predicting climate risks and accelerating circular economies.

But here’s the paradox: the very tool we’re turning to for a sustainable future comes with a growing environmental cost.

Training a single large AI model can emit as much CO₂ as five cars over their lifetimes. The energy required to power AI data centers is skyrocketing, especially as demand for generative AI explodes.

So we must ask:

Is AI truly a sustainability enabler, or are we overlooking its own footprint?

To move forward responsibly, we need to:

Design and train AI models more efficiently using greener algorithms and cleaner energy

Measure and disclose AI’s environmental impact with transparency

Deploy AI where it generates the most system-wide positive impact, especially in areas like climate modeling, biodiversity tracking, and clean energy

AI is not inherently good or bad. Like any powerful tool, its impact depends on how we choose to use it.

Let’s be intentional. Let’s be accountable. Let’s ensure the intelligence we build today doesn’t undermine the planet we’re trying to protect.

What’s your take, tool or threat? Or both?