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April 23, 2025
The role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the fight against climate change is a much-discussed topic. While there is potential for emissions reduction, the increasing energy demand of AI systems poses a challenge. This article examines the opportunities and risks of using AI in the context of climate protection.
Studies, such as the report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), suggest that AI could contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the long term. Optimizing energy consumption in buildings, improving the efficiency of power plants and production facilities, and the early detection of methane leaks are just a few examples of possible applications. Furthermore, AI could accelerate materials research and thus advance the development of new technologies for renewable energies or energy storage.
The other side of the coin is the increasing energy demand of AI systems. Data centers, which are essential for training and operating AI models, consume enormous amounts of electricity. This demand continues to rise with the ongoing development and spread of AI technologies. The current dependence of many data centers on fossil fuels leads to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. There is a risk that the positive effects of AI in climate protection will be offset by the growing energy demand.
The argument that the initial increase in emissions from AI systems will be offset by later savings is reminiscent of the mechanisms of CO₂ emissions trading. Similar to offsetting emissions through, for example, reforestation projects, there is a risk that the positive effects of AI in climate protection will be overestimated. Clear regulations and market mechanisms are lacking to ensure the actual implementation of the promised emission reductions.
The IEA emphasizes that realizing the potential of AI in climate protection depends on various factors. The widespread application of AI solutions in relevant areas, economic incentives, and political frameworks play a decisive role. There is a risk that AI technologies will be prioritized in areas that do not serve climate protection, but rather, for example, the exploration of fossil fuels.
Given the urgency of climate change, it is essential that the expansion of AI systems goes hand in hand with a sustainable energy supply. Investments in renewable energies and the development of energy-efficient AI technologies are essential. Only in this way can the potential of AI in the fight against climate change be effectively utilized.
AI offers both opportunities and risks in the context of climate protection. Whether the technology ultimately contributes to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions depends on political decisions, economic incentives, and technological developments. A sustainable energy supply for AI systems is crucial to harness the positive potential of the technology and minimize the negative impacts.
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