A recent study led by Professor Björn-Ola Linnér and Marie Francisco sheds light on how the EU, UN and World Economic Forum perceive AI. The research explores AI’s various applications and the accompanying potential risks and benefits.
AI can serve as a robust tool for swift and informed decision making. Its versatile uses span from monitoring weather patterns in real-time to predicting energy consumption and CO2 emissions. While AI offers solutions to challenges like disease outbreaks and climate shifts, it is crucial to consider potential downsides.
From the perspectives of the UN, EU and World Economic Forum, AI applications can be used to make quicker, more informed decisions. This includes real-time monitoring of weather and climate events, as well as predicting future energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.”
– Marie Fransisco, lead author from Linköping University and active in Mistra Geopolitics.
AI’s role in boosting sustainability
The study shows that the UN, EU and World Economic Forum favour a flexible attitude towards embracing innovation. AI stands out with its ability to enhance energy efficiency, especially within data centres and computing systems. This perspective finds strong support from the EU, while the World Economic Forum emphasizes certifications centred on AI’s designprinciples.
AI’s diverse applications include:
1. Strengthened data collection and analysis, enabling broader knowledge, scientific breakthroughs and better-informed decisions.
2. Advanced automation across sectors like transportation and industry.
3. Improved efficiency in areas like individual consumption, energy and resourcesutilization, Potential for greater equality and poverty alleviation.
4. Potential for greater equality and poverty alleviation.
ChatGPT user. Photo: Mojahid Mottakin / Unsplash.
According to our study, the EU, UN, and World Economic Forum see AI as a tool for sustainability and an object of governance. Ideas about how to use AI for sustainability governance and progress correlates to ecological modernisation.”
– Björn-Ola Linnér, Professor at Linköping University.
Potential pitfalls: from energy use to inherent bias
Despite AI’s advancements in energy efficiency, EU documents voice concerns about possible hikes in energy consumption and resultant carbon emissions.
There is also growing sentiment about the absence of comprehensive AI regulations. This gap might hinder AI’s ethical development, particularly regarding data security and individual privacy.
Furthermore, unnoticed biases in AI systems couldinadvertently lead to discrimination and social inequities.
Working together to maximize AI’s potential
The study emphasizes that collaboration should remain a cornerstone of AI’s responsible development. The amalgamation of insights from scientists, policymakers, businesses and the public is essential. This collective approach can foster knowledgeexchange, minimize biases and ensure that AI’s benefits are accessible to all.
Furthermore, as AI emerges as a source of new employment opportunities, it is imperative to ensure broad participation, especially from women and girls. The researchers advocate for an enhanced emphasis on AItraining and development initiatives, particularly in lower income countries, to underpin equality and social justice.
Mistra Geopolitic’s researchers
Professor Björn-Ola Linnér
Marie Francisco
Björn-Ola Linnér & Marie Fransisco
News story written by Ana Calvo, edited by Oliver Garner and Ylva Rylander.
Foresight capabilities and emerging technologies
This research is performed within Mistra Geopolitics research theme “Foresight capabilities and emerging technologies“.
