AI's Role in Climate Crisis Discussed at COP30 in Brazil
The COP30 climate talks in Belém, Brazil featured significant discussions on the impact of artificial intelligence on the climate crisis, alongside the launch of the AI Climate Institute by a coalition including UN bodies and the Brazilian government. This institute aims to promote AI as a tool to reduce emissions in developing countries.
Proponents of AI highlight its potential to improve efficiencies in public transit, agriculture, energy grids, and weather forecasting, which could lower emissions and aid in managing climate risks more effectively. A June report from the London School of Economics estimates that AI could reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by 3.2 to 5.4 billion tonnes over the next decade, even after factoring in AI’s own energy consumption.
However, critics warn that AI-driven data centers consume substantial amounts of electricity and water, which might increase emissions and operational costs, especially in regions vulnerable to droughts. Modelling by Cornell University suggests that the growth of AI in the United States alone could add up to 44 million tonnes of CO2 by 2030, an amount comparable to emissions from 10 million new gasoline cars or equivalent to Norway’s annual emissions.
Furthermore, a report from Wood Mackenzie indicates that AI could facilitate the extraction of an additional trillion barrels of oil, potentially undermining climate goals by expanding fossil fuel production.
Key voices in the discussion include Maria João Sousa of Climate Change AI, who cautiously supports AI's climate benefits; Lorenzo Saa of Clarity AI, who emphasizes AI's gains in forecasting and monitoring; Jean Su of the Center for Biological Diversity, who remains skeptical about net environmental benefits; and Natascha Hospedales of Client Earth.
