The Intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Environmental Sustainability

19min Snip

00:00

Play full episode

Summary

Transcript

Episode notes

The chapter delves into the potential benefits of artificial intelligence for the environment, including improving modeling of natural phenomena, enhancing efficiency gains in various sectors, and aiding breakthroughs in energy-related technologies. It also explores the applications of AI in oil and fossil fuel extraction, discussing the potential for efficiency optimization. Additionally, the conversation touches on the limitations of current AI technologies, differing opinions within environmental spaces, and the unsettling implications of AI as discussed by prominent figures in the field.

(Conversation recorded on June 27th, 2024)

Show Summary:

Artificial intelligence has been advancing at a break-neck pace. Accompanying this is an almost frenzied optimism that AI will fix our most pressing global problems, particularly when it comes to the hype surrounding climate solutions.

In this episode, Daniel Schmachtenberger joins Nate to take a wide-boundary look at the true environmental risks embedded within the current promises of artificial intelligence. He demonstrates that the current trajectory of AI’s impact is headed towards ecological destruction, rather than restoration… an important narrative currently missing from the discourse surrounding AI at large.

What are the environmental implications of a tool with unbound computational capabilities aimed towards goals of relentless growth and extraction? How could artificial intelligence play into the themes of power and greed, intensifying inequalities and accelerating the fragmentation of society? What role could AI play under a different set of values and expectations for the future that are in service to the betterment of life?

We encourage you to explore the resources and research from The Civilization Research Institute on artificial intelligence compiled in this document:

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/61d5bc2bb737636144dc55d0/t/66958505d89b99287c4ecab3/1721074950447/AI%2C+Climate+and+the+Environment-07-12.pdf

About Daniel Schmactenberger:

Daniel Schmachtenberger is a founding member of The Consilience Project, aimed at improving public sensemaking and dialogue.

The throughline of his interests has to do with ways of improving the health and development of individuals and society, with a virtuous relationship between the two as a goal.

Towards these ends, he’s had a particular interest in catastrophic and existential risk, with focuses on civilization collapse and institutional decay. His work also includes an analysis of progress narratives, collective action problems, and social organization theories. These themes are all connected through close study of the relevant domains in philosophy and science.

Show Notes and More

Watch this video episode on Youtube

Read the Development in Progress paper

To support ISEOF visit: https://www.thegreatsimplification.com/support