As the world contends with the pressing challenges of climate change, resource depletion and environmental degradation, the role of technology in fostering sustainability has become increasingly pivotal.
Artificial intelligence (AI), with its capacity to process vast amounts of data, discern patterns and optimise processes, has surfaced as a formidable tool in the pursuit of a more sustainable future for Zimbabwe.
Nonetheless, akin to any technological advancement, AI also bears potential trade-offs that must be meticulously considered and mitigated.
In her advocacy for “Sustainable AI”, Aimee van Wynsberghe, in a paper published by Springer Link, states: “Sustainable AI is a movement to foster change in the entire lifecycle of AI products (ie, idea generation, training, retuning, implementation, governance) towards greater ecological integrity and social justice. As such, sustainable AI is focused on more than AI applications; rather, it addresses the whole socio-technical system of AI.”
Optimising energy consumption
One of the most promising applications of AI in the realm of sustainability in Zimbabwe lies in its ability to optimise energy consumption.
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By analysing data from various sources, such as smart meters, weather patterns, and building management systems in Zimbabwe, AI algorithms can identify inefficiencies and recommend strategies to reduce energy waste.
For instance, AI-powered systems can adjust heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in real-time in buildings, responding to occupancy levels and external conditions, thereby minimising unnecessary energy consumption.
Moreover, AI can play a pivotal role in the integration and management of renewable energy sources. By predicting energy demand and supply patterns, AI can facilitate the efficient distribution and storage of renewable energy in the country, ensuring that excess energy is not wasted, and that demand is met in a sustainable manner.
Reducing waste
Another area where AI can contribute significantly to sustainability efforts in Zimbabwe is in the reduction of waste and the promotion of a circular economy. AI-powered systems can analyse supply chains, production processes, and consumer behaviour in Zimbabwe to identify opportunities for waste minimisation and resource optimisation.
For example, in the manufacturing sector, AI can help optimise production schedules, minimise material waste, and identify opportunities for reusing or recycling byproducts.
In the retail industry in Zimbabwe, AI can assist in demand forecasting, inventory management and product lifecycle analysis, reducing the likelihood of unsold goods ending up in landfills.
Furthermore, AI can play a crucial role in the development of smart cities, where waste management, recycling, and resource allocation can be optimised through data-driven decision-making.
Climate change mitigation
AI’s potential in addressing climate change in Zimbabwe extends beyond energy and waste management. AI-powered models can simulate and predict the impacts of climate change in Zimbabwe, enabling policymakers and stakeholders to develop informed strategies for mitigation and adaptation.
For instance, AI can be used to analyse satellite imagery and other environmental data to monitor deforestation in Zimbabwe, track changes in land use, and identify areas at risk of natural disasters. This information can guide conservation efforts, urban planning, and disaster preparedness measures in the country.
Additionally, AI can support the development of climate-resilient agriculture in Zimbabwe by analysing soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop yields, enabling farmers to make data-driven decisions about planting, irrigation, and pest management.
Addressing the trade-offs
While AI holds immense potential for promoting sustainability in Zimbabwe, it is essential to acknowledge and address the trade-offs associated with its computational power and energy demands.
Training and running AI models can be energy-intensive, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact in the country. To mitigate these trade-offs, researchers and developers in Zimbabwe must prioritise energy efficiency in AI systems.
This can be achieved through hardware optimisation, such as the development of specialised AI chips and accelerators, as well as software optimisation techniques like model compression and quantisation. Moreover, the adoption of renewable energy sources and sustainable data centre practices in Zimbabwe can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of AI operations.
Collaboration between technology companies, policymakers and environmental organisations in Zimbabwe is crucial to ensure that the benefits of AI are realised while minimising its negative impacts.
Ethical considerations
Beyond the technical aspects of AI and sustainability, it is imperative to consider the ethical implications and promote responsible AI practices in Zimbabwe.
AI systems can perpetuate biases and reinforce existing inequalities in the country if not designed and deployed with care. Ensuring fairness, transparency and accountability in AI systems is essential to ensure that sustainability efforts benefit all segments of society equitably in Zimbabwe.
This includes involving diverse stakeholders in the development and deployment of AI solutions, as well as establishing robust governance frameworks and ethical guidelines.
Furthermore, the privacy and security implications of AI-powered systems must be addressed in Zimbabwe, particularly when dealing with sensitive environmental data or personal information related to energy consumption or waste management.
Collaboration
Addressing the complex challenges of sustainability through AI in Zimbabwe requires collaboration across disciplines and sectors. Researchers, policymakers, industry leaders and civil society organisations in the country must work together to leverage the full potential of AI while mitigating its risks and trade-offs.
Interdisciplinary approaches that combine expertise in AI, environmental sciences, engineering, economics, and social sciences are crucial for developing holistic and effective solutions in Zimbabwe.
By fostering open dialogue, knowledge sharing and collaborative research, Zimbabwe can accelerate the development and deployment of AI-powered sustainability solutions.
AI presents a powerful opportunity to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability in Zimbabwe on a national scale. From optimising energy consumption and reducing waste to supporting climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, AI can play a pivotal role in creating a more sustainable future for the country.
However, realising the full potential of AI in sustainability in Zimbabwe requires addressing the trade-offs associated with its computational power and energy demands, as well as ensuring ethical and responsible practices.
By fostering collaboration, interdisciplinary approaches, and responsible innovation, Zimbabwe can harness the transformative power of AI to create a greener, more resilient, and equitable nation for generations to come.
Bangure is a filmmaker. He has extensive experience in both print and electronic media production and management. He is a past chairperson of the National Employment Council of the Printing, Packaging and Newspaper Industry. He has considerable exposure to IT networks and Cloud technologies and is an enthusiastic scholar of AI. — naison.bangure@hub-edutech.com