BCG & Google – Climate & AI, 2023

Accelerating climate action is crucial to meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement, as current projections show that we will fall short of the target to keep global warming under 1.5°C. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates that without further action, the world will likely see warming of 2.8°C with catastrophic consequences. To achieve the 1.5°C goal, emissions will need to be reduced by 43% by 2030 compared to 2010 levels. Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to play a significant role in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and strengthening climate-related adaptation efforts. Many executives believe that AI can address climate issues, and its impact can be multiplied if it contributes to scientific breakthroughs in climate action. AI can contribute to climate action by reducing emissions, guiding adaptations to climate change impacts, and providing foundational capabilities for climate-related research and education. Leading-edge organizations and use cases are already demonstrating the promise of AI for climate action. AI can curate information sources for shaping climate strategy and responding to emergencies, offer predictive capabilities for disaster warning, and optimize organizations' carbon footprints. However, the use of AI also poses risks, such as energy-related greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption. AI providers are working to enhance energy efficiency and integrate clean energy sources, while addressing water consumption issues through disclosure, new cooling techniques, and replenishment initiatives.