Sustainable and environmentally friendly AI

AI systems promise to help tackle some of our most pressing societal concerns, but this must be achieved in the most environmentally friendly way possible. The system’s development, deployment and use processes, as well as its entire supply chain, should be assessed in this regard. This includes measures such as a critical examination of its resource use and energy consumption during training, and opting for less environmentally harmful choices where available. Measures securing the environmental friendliness of AI systems’ entire supply chain should also be encouraged.

Social impact

Ubiquitous exposure to social AI systems in all areas of our lives – be it education, work, care or entertainment – may alter our conception of social agency, or impact our social relationships and attachment. While AI systems can be used to enhance social skills, they can equally contribute to their deterioration. This could also affect people’s physical and mental wellbeing. The effects of these systems must therefore be carefully monitored and considered.

Society and democracy

Beyond assessing the impact of an AI system’s development, deployment and use on individuals, this impact should also be assessed from a societal perspective, taking into account its effect on institutions, democracy and society at large. The use of AI systems should always be given careful consideration, particularly in situations relating to democratic processes, including not only political decision-making but also electoral contexts.