2. Sustainable AI

Artificial intelligence is advancing rapidly, but its progress comes with real environmental and social costs that often remain unseen. The chapter opens by examining the energy, water, materials, and labour implications behind AI systems, showing how their growing footprint risks intensifying climate pressures, resource scarcity, and inequalities. Recognising these impacts is essential to ensuring that technological progress does not undermine long‑term sustainability.The chapter then turns to the opportunities. When responsibly designed and governed, AI can support environmental protection, enhance resource efficiency, expand access to services, and inform more equitable policy decisions. Using the UN Sustainable Development Goals as a framework, it highlights where AI can meaningfully contribute to sustainable development. Ultimately, the chapter argues that AI’s impact depends on the choices societies make—and that a conscious, human‑centred approach is key to aligning AI with a more resilient and inclusive future.