Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the center of a dual role in climate change: it can both boost climate resilience and increase energy consumption. Here are some of the trending stories around AI and climate, highlighting its value and challenges.
Introduction: AI in Climate Change
A technological revolution is unfolding with AI at its core. From streamlining data centers to enhancing climate models, AI’s role is multifaceted. It’s working wonders in areas like predicting weather patterns to assessing climate risks. But let’s dive into how it’s making waves in real-world scenarios.
1. AI’s Energy Consumption Conundrum
A critical challenge facing AI is its energy consumption. AI’s growth is tied to more powerful data centers, which are increasing electricity demand significantly. This has environmental implications, as data centers are projected to double their energy consumption by the late 2020s. Experts suggest that while AI can help reduce emissions, its own footprint needs addressing through sustainable technologies.
2. Climate Modeling with AI
Researchers are using AI to refine climate models, making them more accurate. AI enhances the analysis of vast environmental datasets, improving predictions and helping in better management of climate risks. This technology is pivotal in crafting more effective climate policies and strategies for mitigation.
3. Transparency in Corporate Environmental Practices
An AI tool developed at Oxford University aims to make corporate environmental practices more transparent. By analyzing vast amounts of data, AI can expose discrepancies and inconsistencies, holding companies accountable for their environmental impact. This tool is set to revolutionize corporate responsibility in sustainability.
4. Public Perception and Climate Policy Support
A recent study used machine learning to understand public perceptions about climate risk. It found that around 60% of Americans are confused about climate change and ambivalent towards supporting climate policies. This insight highlights the need for clearer communication and education to enhance public support for climate initiatives.
5. Sustainability in Earth System Models
Researchers from the CMCC have introduced a novel approach using machine learning to reduce uncertainty in Earth System Models. This method significantly improves temperature projections, helping in more accurate assessments of climate change impacts and management strategies.
These stories illustrate AI’s complex relationship with climate change. While AI offers numerous benefits in analyzing and mitigating climate risks, its environmental footprint remains a pressing issue that requires urgent attention and sustainable solutions.
References:
- https://www.euronews.com/green/2025/04/11/ai-climate-champion-catastrophe-carbon-emissions
- https://newsdata.io/breaking-news-api
- https://sciencefeatured.com/2025/04/09/a-machine-learning-model-discovers-that-60-of-americans-are-confused-about-climate-risk-and-ambivalent-about-supporting-climate-policy/
- https://newmediashow.com
- https://www.cmcc.it/article/machine-learning-reduces-uncertainty-in-earth-system-models
- https://www.hkexnews.hk/listedco/listconews/sehk/2025/0408/2025040800537.pdf
- https://iee.psu.edu/news/blog/why-ai-uses-so-much-energy-and-what-we-can-do-about-it
- https://uz.usembassy.gov/category/us-and-uzbekistan/
