Reassessing AI Sustainability: Environmental Costs and Social Risks
Year: 2026
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: The growing role of artificial intelligence in driving sustainable development has been widely recognized; however, the systemic effects of artificial intelligence have received relatively little scrutiny. Using a critical approach, this study examines the environmental externalities and social-technical risks associated with sustainability in the context of artificial intelligence. In terms of environmental sustainability, artificial intelligence relies on computationally intensive processes that require significant amounts of energy and infrastructure to operate. As such, artificial intelligence contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and exerts ecological pressure. Additionally, through algorithmically-driven decision-making and unequal access to computational resources, artificial intelligence raises questions concerning equity and governance. The research frames artificial intelligence within a sustainability paradox and illustrates how it can be aligned with long-term sustainable goals through the development of energy efficient models, transparent governance and responsible innovation.
Language: English
Topic: Green IT and Sustainability
Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7204086037