Artificial Intelligence (AI) isn't just about smart outcomes; it's also about smart resource use. AI can be a force for good, improving economies, society, and even protecting the environment. However, it's no secret that AI systems are also heavy energy guzzlers, contributing to significant carbon emissions.
Gartner expects that by 2027, 25% of CIO’s compensation will be linked to their sustainable technology impact. But focusing only on the sustainability of internal IT operations (“sustainable IT”) is too narrow a way to think about sustainable technology. Instead, also think of enabling a whole host of sustainable outcomes using technology.
• AI for Sustainability: Leveraging AI to boost both financial and non-financial benefits across industries.
• Sustainability of AI: Prioritising ways to minimise the environmental toll of AI operations.
• Smart AI: Composite AI systems that mimic the structures, organisation and most of all the efficiencies of the human brain.
• AI Energy Diet: Keep tabs on AI energy use by reusing AI models where possible and choosing energy-saving hardware and networking.
• Sun-Chasing AI: By running your AI at the right place and right time (e.g. follow-the-sun datacentre workloads) which promote cleaner energy production.
• Renewable Energy Investment: By purchasing clean energy where it is used or investing in renewable energy credits to balance out the heavy carbon footprint.
• Eco-Centric AI Planning: Factor in environmental benefits, not just business gains, when deploying AI. Focus on creating more value than the ecological costs.
When it comes to AI, it's not just about doing things better, but doing better things for our planet.
Read more about this trend in the following Gartner article: Are You Thinking Too Small About Sustainable Technology
