The UN 2024
Climate Change Conference (COP29) will run from 11 to 22
November 2024, and each day is scheduled to have a focus. One of
the themes will be Science, Technology and Innovation/
Digitalisation. Of course, one of the hot topics in the technology
sector is Generative AI (GenAI).

GenAI differs from traditional AI by learning from multi-modal
data sources, integrating visual, textual and sensor data. Many
companies are assessing the potential to harness GenAI for new
sustainability solutions. GenAI can analyse vast data sets, perform
modelling and run simulations as well as generating Environmental,
Social and Governance (ESG) reports and for improved standards
compliance and better planning for long term sustainability
goals.

In addition to the more obvious applications of GenAI in energy
efficiency and optimisation, deploying GenAI has the potential to
massively improve supply chain management to provide sustainable
sourcing.

Some argue, quite reasonably, that GenAI has a negative effect
on our climate change goals given the high energy requirements of
the data centres needed to power GenAI. It is beholden on companies
and Governments to ensure that GenAI infrastructure does not
contribute to the carbon footprint, for example, by utilising
renewable energy sources. Of course GenAI may be implemented to
optimise the energy efficiency of data centres.

Find out how Intellectual Property can help build a greener future. The Marks & Clerk 2024 AI Report is out now.

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