The Sustainability Paradox of AI

By Sapan Agarwal, Global Senior Vice President, Business Transformation at Frost & Sullivan

As much as we celebrate artificial intelligence (AI) for improving business operations and fuelling economic growth, there’s an aspect often sidelined — the environmental impact.

The truth is, AI doesn’t just run on data and algorithms; it runs on substantial electrical power. Training sophisticated AI models like GPT-3, for instance, can emit as much carbon as five cars over their lifetimes.

In our quest for digital evolution are we neglecting the ecological impacts of AI?

Sustainable AI in the Middle East

Regional giants like Aramco and Masdar have used AI to optimize their energy use. Aramco, leveraging AI, has optimized its energy use across operations, dramatically cutting emissions. Similarly, Masdar’s use of AI in managing renewable energy distribution showcases how technology can promote sustainability.

However, these commendable endeavours also highlight the massive energy demands associated with AI research and development.

Can AI Go Green?

For business leaders across Middle East, merging AI with environmental stewardship presents both a challenge and an opportunity:

• • Energy-Efficient Hardware: The use of AI-specific chips, such as TPUs, offers a viable avenue for reducing energy use.
• • Green Data Centres: With the UAE’s commitment to sustainability, corporations such as Etisalat are increasing their investments in renewable energy-powered data centres. Can other regional players follow suit?
• • Algorithmic Efficiency: Urgent need for resource-efficient AI models. The Dubai AI Lab is leading the way in developing algorithms that minimize computational resources and reduce environmental impact.
• • Carbon Offsetting and Credits: While not a long-term solution, companies like the Saudi Investment Recycling Company are seeking carbon offsets to balance their technological footprints. What significance do carbon credits have in your organization’s environmental strategy?

Balancing AI and ESG

As AI becomes more integrated into corporate models, its impact on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics becomes critical. These rankings are critical for recruiting investments and moulding customer perceptions, and a commitment to sustainable AI practices can boost competitiveness and investor confidence.

A Visionary Call to Action

As Middle East pushes forward with its digital transformation goals, business leaders are increasingly promoting AI-first growth plans. However, today’s actions will shape Middle East’s technology legacy, as well as its ability to fit with global sustainability goals.

This path involves more than incremental improvements; it necessitates a fundamental transformation in how we view and deploy AI technologies.

As the region moves toward a sustainable, AI-enabled future, the time for reflection and action is now.