Contextualizing Digital Innovation and Artificial Intelligence to Sustainable Development

Abstract

The analysis is done on digital technology to know its role to promote sustainability. The analysis of big data, artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies reveal these facts. The digital technology is helpful to create smart electrical grids. It also creates optimized energy system to save energy and enhances its forecasting ability. The energy plant assessment is done by the application of artificial intelligence. Clean power is thus provided by the artificial intelligence use. Smart homes and cities can be created by the digital technology. Energy efficient building can be created as well as automation of urban planning can be done. The sustainable use of land is also possible with the artificial intelligence technology use. It is found that nutrition and precision agriculture are possible with artificial intelligence application. Crop issues are also identified by applying digital technology in the agricultural sector. Deforestation issue can also be effectively addressed by applying the digital technology. The production and consumption can become sustainable with better monitoring and transparency in supply chain. Smart recycling system and fresh food replenishment can be obtained with the use of digital technology. The transport system can be improved as artificial intelligence enabled cars and autonomous vehicles can optimize the traffic flow, reduce accidents, and improve cost efficiency. Charging infrastructure supportive for environment can also be created using digital technology. On the other side, there are several drawbacks associated with the artificial intelligence. One is inequality caused using this technology as the equipment of artificial intelligence are not accessible to all equally. Another drawback of the digital technology is unethical use as the digital technology may be used for unethical purposes and may promote nationalism. It may erode the social cohesion fabric too. Other drawbacks such as improper distribution of technology and gender inequality also suggest that artificial intelligence as a form of digital technology may not be completely appropriate to support sustainable development. Thus, the findings suggest that the digital technology has a mixed impact on sustainability.