AI can also analyse environmental data to help cities plan green spaces and monitor air quality, contributing to healthier urban living conditions. In disaster management, AI can predict and respond to natural disasters more effectively, enhancing urban resilience. RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION AI promotes sustainable consumption and production patterns by optimising resource use and minimising waste. AIdriven analytics help businesses implement more sustainable practices, supporting SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). AI enhances recycling processes, tracks product lifecycles, and reduces environmental footprints, encouraging more responsible consumer behaviours. AI can also provide consumers with information about the sustainability of products, helping them make informed purchasing decisions. For instance, AI can help retailers manage inventory more efficiently, reducing overproduction and waste. COMBATTING CLIMATE CHANGE AI plays a crucial role in environmental conservation. Through advanced data analytics and predictive modelling, AI aids in climate change mitigation, biodiversity preservation, and sustainable resource management. AI optimises agricultural water use, monitors deforestation, and tracks wildlife populations, supporting initiatives that maintain ecological balance. These efforts are essential for achieving SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). AI can also predict and model the impacts of climate change, helping policymakers develop effective strategies to mitigate its effects. For example, AI can model the effects of rising sea levels on coastal communities, informing adaptation strategies. PEACE, JUSTICE, AND STRONG INSTITUTIONS AI enhances the effectiveness of institutions by improving data analysis, transparency, and accountability. By supporting better governance and decision-making processes, AI contributes to SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). AI can detect and prevent fraud, enhance cybersecurity, and ensure fair and transparent elections, fostering trust in public institutions. AI-powered tools can also streamline bureaucratic processes, reducing corruption and improving public service delivery. For example, AI can help monitor and analyse social media to detect signs of unrest, enabling timely and appropriate responses to maintain peace. GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS AI facilitates global collaboration by enhancing communication, data sharing, and cooperation across borders. AIdriven platforms support international efforts to achieve the SDGs by providing real-time data and insights, fostering collaboration among governments, organisations, and communities. This collective approach is crucial for achieving SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). AI helps build a united front against global challenges. It can also help track progress towards the SDGs, providing data that informs global efforts and ensures accountability. DRIVING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT My research offers a compelling vision of AI’s potential to drive sustainable development. By harnessing AI’s capabilities, we can work towards a more equitable and sustainable future. Addressing key challenges and ensuring responsible AI development and deployment will be crucial as we strive to meet the ambitious SDG targets. As we look towards 2030, integrating AI into sustainable development strategies will be essential in achieving a better future for all. FIFTY FOUR DEGREES | 37 Dr Sharmin Nahar is a Lecturer in Entrepreneurship in the Department of Entrepreneurship and Strategy. Her paper Modeling the effects of artificial intelligence (AI)-based innovation on sustainable development goals (SDGs): Applying a system dynamics perspective in a cross-country setting is published in the journal Technological Forecasting and Social Change. s.nahar@lancaster.ac.uk
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