Artificial intelligence (AI) could be a game-changer for achieving global sustainability targets but requires careful governance to mitigate risks, according to Gong Ke, Executive Director of the Chinese Institute of New Generation Artificial Intelligence Development Strategies. Speaking during a CGTN special program titled "Embrace the AI Era: Global Governance Initiative in Action," Gong emphasized AI's potential to accelerate progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 while addressing its challenges.
"Digital technologies can drive breakthroughs in clean energy and water safety, but they also risk widening the digital divide and increasing environmental strain," Gong noted. He pointed to Shenzhen as an example, where AI-driven innovations reduced battery testing costs by 40%, demonstrating how smart technology can optimize resource efficiency.
China is pursuing a "digital and green dual transformation" strategy to balance AI's energy demands with sustainability. This includes improving energy efficiency in data centers and integrating renewable energy sources into tech infrastructure. Gong also highlighted China's international efforts to bridge AI-related inequalities, such as the UN-backed resolution on AI capacity building and the Engineering Capacity Building for Africa program, which focuses on infrastructure and talent development.
