AI governance fails to support climate goals, study warns
A new analysis of international AI strategies reveals a critical gap: current governance frameworks do not prioritize environmental sustainability. Researchers call for making large language models public goods and embedding sustainability into AI development—steps they argue are essential if the technology is to help rather than hinder climate action.
Originaltitel: The geopolitics of AI in global environmental governance
<p>This chapter explores the geopolitics of AI governance from a sustainability perspective. The governance of AI is increasingly hybrid: there is a convergence on some principles and agreed upon challenges. In parallel, we witness the emergence of legally binding instruments, complemented by soft laws. We also analysed a selection of four international organisations’ AI strategies and three national strategies. Concerns identified are the need for common rules precise enough for implementation; navigating risks and benefits in the short and long term; and balancing technological sovereignty and the inherent need for collaboration in AI development. Despite some positive efforts, the current AI governance landscape does not foster sustainability. Ways forward include making large language models a public good accessible to all, supported by the public sector, as well as mainstreaming sustainability approaches in AI development.</p>