How to use AI more sensibly – and sustainably

If someone used a large truck to deliver one envelope across the street, what would your reaction be? You would probably say it worked, but it was wasteful. The envelope arrived, but the method made little sense.

In many ways, this mirrors how we often use artificial intelligence (AI) today.

We use powerful AI systems such as ChatGPT to write short messages, polish simple sentences, and answer questions we could handle ourselves with less intensive tools. The outcome is the same. But under the hood, the differences in processing, electricity, and water use are enormous.

One small request will not change the planet. But millions of small and unnecessary requests can add up over time. The question is not whether AI is good or bad. The better question is whether we are using the right amount of AI for the right task.

AI is becoming a utility

AI is quickly becoming an everyday utility, like electricity. But because it feels invisible, we can easily forget every use has a cost.

We know not to leave lights on all day. We also know not to run an air conditioner with windows open. We need a similar mindset for AI.

AI is often described as living in “the cloud”. This makes it sound light, clean, and almost magical....

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