COP29: Digital technology and AI can drive climate action, but limiting industry emissions is key
On the first ‘Digital Day’ of the United Nations climate conference, COP29 Declaration on Green Digital Action has received endorsements from more than 1,000 governments, companies, civil society organizations, international and regional organizations, and other stakeholders.
Pluses and minuses
According to the United Nations International Telecommunication Union (ITU), organized digital-focused events today at COP29, Digital technology can be an important tool to accelerate the achievement of the Agenda 2030 for sustainable developmentas they play an important role in climate monitoring, early warning systems, and overall climate adaptation and mitigation.
Indeed, technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and big data can play a central role in optimizing energy consumption in our digital world. By harnessing AI algorithms, data centers can optimize energy efficiency, streamline operations and reduce carbon emissions, the ITU said.
However, as the use of digital products and services increases, so does the amount of energy and water used and e-waste generated.
Increasing levels of digitalization require more energy, which increases greenhouse gas emissions. AI programs need servers running around the clock. Servers and the data centers that house them use a lot of electricity. Additionally, even more energy is needed to cool data centers.
These and other issues were debated at the high-level COP29 roundtable on digitalization for climate action.
Unlocking digital technology for climate action
The COP29 Declaration on Green Digital Action recognizes the importance of digital technology in mitigating and adapting to climate change. The goals in the declaration highlight how digital innovation can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide life-saving tools to inform and warn communities.
“This important time for Green digital action at COP29 will propel us forward with a shared belief that we can and must reduce the environmental impact of digital technologies while leveraging their undeniable potential to solve the climate crisis. queen,” speak ITU Secretary General Doreen Bogdan-Martin.
“Let’s continue to build on our green digital momentum right up to COP30 and with it a more sustainable digital future for generations to come,” she said.
On the first Digital Day at the United Nations climate conference, COP29 in Baku hosted a Roundtable on Green Digital Action. Pictured is ITU Secretary General Doreen Bogdan-Martin.
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