This week, we’re diving into one of the most rapidly evolving fields of our time: artificial intelligence. AI takes many forms and is rapidly transforming many industries and sectors - from helping to optimise international supply chains to smarting up energy grids and predicting climate patterns.

But alongside the many celebrated efficiency and problem-solving benefits that AI can offer, there are also many concerns lurking around every virtual corner - including concerns about the massive environmental footprint of AI.

References from the episode:

UNEP World Environment Situation Room: https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/how-artificial-intelligence-helping-tackle-environmental-challenges

Smart Farming: https://www.bsigroup.com/globalassets/localfiles/en-gb/bsi-knowledge/bsi-knowledge-food/bsi_smart_farming_report.pdf

AI e-waste: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/rise-ai-looming-threat-e-waste-how-automation-can-save-day-exnfc/

TUBERSCAN: https://www.harper-adams.ac.uk/research/project/1285/tuberscan-using-deep-learning-and-data-science-to-improve-agronomy-decisions-in-the-potato-industry

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For What It’s Earth is hosted and produced by Emma Brisdion and Sophie Pavelle, and edited and mixed by Mark Skinner (2024).