COP31: Artificial Intelligence to be Used in Combating Climate Change

The COP31 Presidency has released an initial policy document addressing the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and climate change. It invites nations and companies to voluntarily commit to using this technology as part of the solution to climate challenges-rather than as a new source of greenhouse gas emissions-reports AFP. The initiative also covers the environmental impact of data centers, which are major energy consumers-an issue that had not been explicitly addressed until now within the framework of United Nations climate conferences.

• More Efficient Data Centers and Low-Emission Energy

In June, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for "the whole truth" to be told regarding the climate implications of AI development. The Turkish and Australian organizers of COP31-scheduled to take place from November 9-20 in Antalya-have likewise expressed their commitment to promoting "climate-responsible AI." The document, titled the "Antalya Artificial Intelligence Commitment," calls on companies, investors, financial and research institutions, international organizations, local authorities, and civil society groups to support the development of AI that is sustainably powered, efficiently designed, transparently evaluated, and accessible to all. Proposed measures include prioritizing low-emission energy sources and employing efficient cooling systems for data centers. The document also calls for the mobilization of additional resources for artificial intelligence solutions that could contribute to emissions reduction, climate change adaptation, and the strengthening of resilience.

• A tool for the energy transition

Artificial intelligence could help optimize electrical grids, including by more effectively managing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. Furthermore, the technology can assist users in scheduling the charging of electric vehicles for times when electricity is sourced from low-emission origins. However, the organizers of COP31 clarify that the proposed commitments are voluntary and non-binding; they create no new obligations and must be tailored to the specific national circumstances of each signatory. Evan Tachovsky, a representative of the World Resources Institute, noted that the document provides a starting point for cooperation between states and companies regarding an urgent global issue. He cautioned, however, that the initiative lacks accountability mechanisms and requires support through concrete funding and robust guarantees.

• Criticism regarding the climate benefits of artificial intelligence

Some environmental organizations view the initiative with reservation. Jill McArdle, a representative of the NGO Beyond Fossil Fuels, stated that there is no compelling evidence that artificial intelligence will yield climate benefits. She expressed concern that the commitment could end up serving as "an environmental label that justifies the status quo," rather than driving tangible change. The debate thus highlights a dilemma in AI development: while the technology can support energy efficiency and adaptation to climate change, the energy consumption of the infrastructure required for its operation raises questions regarding its environmental impact. The effectiveness of the proposed commitment will depend on the measures adopted and the resources allocated for its implementation.