I Witnessed A.I. Collide with Climate

As I reflect on the intersection of technology and environment, I am reminded of a particularly striking instance where the two converged in a small town. The community, known for its rich mineral deposits, has long been a crucial contributor to the development of artificial intelligence (A.I.). The same minerals that power our smartphones, laptops, and A.I. systems are extracted from this town’s earth, making it an unlikely yet vital player in the tech industry.

However, the town’s significance in the A.I. landscape was put to the test when Hurricane Helene made landfall. The storm brought with it powerful winds and torrential rains, causing widespread destruction and chaos. As the hurricane ravaged the town, it became clear that the very minerals that make A.I. possible were now being threatened by the devastating effects of climate change.

Kate Crawford, a professor at the University of Southern California, senior principal researcher at Microsoft Research, and author of “Atlas of A.I.,” has been studying the intricate relationships between technology, environment, and society. Her work has shed light on the often-overlooked environmental costs of developing and deploying A.I. systems. As someone who has dedicated her career to understanding the complex interplay between technology and the environment, Crawford offers a unique perspective on the collision of A.I. and climate change.

The convergence of A.I. and climate change in this town serves as a poignant reminder of the need for a more nuanced understanding of the relationships between technology, environment, and society. As we continue to develop and rely on A.I. systems, we must also acknowledge the environmental implications of our actions and strive for a more sustainable future. By doing so, we can work towards mitigating the effects of climate change and ensuring that the benefits of technological advancements are shared by all, without sacrificing the well-being of our planet.