The intersection of AI, blockchain and sustainability: hot topics and concerns

Discover how AI, blockchain, and sustainability intersect, as experts explore the importance of ethics, responsible development, and collaboration in achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

Key takeaways
  • AI can play a crucial role in sustainability, but ethics are essential, and biases in models can worsen issues for disadvantaged people.
  • UNICEF is working on a policy guidance for ethical AI, and it’s essential to define prerequisites for goals to avoid unwanted consequences.
  • Sustainability is not only about energy consumption, but also about access to technology, education, health, and well-being.
  • Blockchain can help with traceability, and AI can help with understanding model behavior, but combining the two can close the circle and help progress towards SDGs.
  • AI and blockchain are correlated, and linking them can create a powerful synergy.
  • AI is neutral only if people use it responsibly, and it’s crucial to prevent companies from taking advantage of AI development.
  • Institutions can collaborate with the private sector to bring adoption to a higher level.
  • UNICEF is looking for ways to leverage blockchain technology for humanitarian cash transfer programs.
  • AI can be used to create disinformation; it’s crucial to educate people about AI and blockchain and create systems to support their application.