Sustainability and artificial intelligence at Leicester

Artificial intelligence (AI) offers powerful opportunities to support sustainability, from tackling climate change to accelerating research and innovation. At the University of Leicester, we explore both the benefits and environmental impacts of AI, helping students, researchers and society use these technologies responsibly and ethically.

Using AI responsibly for people, planet and progress

AI is transforming how we understand and address global challenges, including climate change, environmental monitoring, healthcare, biodiversity, resource management and sustainable development.

AI also raises important questions about energy consumption, carbon emissions, water use and the environmental impact of large-scale computing infrastructure. Understanding both the opportunities and challenges of AI is essential if it is to be used responsibly.

At the University of Leicester, we believe universities have a vital role to play in these conversations. Our responsibility is not only to adopt emerging technologies but also to explore them critically, evaluate their benefits and risks, and help shape their responsible use for the benefit of society.

Understanding the opportunities and challenges of AI

We recognise that AI has significant sustainability implications. The technologies that power AI require energy, computing resources, raw materials and supporting infrastructure. As AI adoption grows, transparency, evidence-based decision-making, and responsible innovation become increasingly important.

At the same time, AI is creating new opportunities to support sustainability goals. Researchers, governments and organisations are using AI to improve efficiency, accelerate scientific discovery, monitor environmental change, optimise resources and make more informed decisions. Innovation in this area continues to evolve rapidly and offers significant potential for positive impact.

Our responsible and sustainable approach to AI

Our approach to AI is guided by the University's commitment to sustainability, social responsibility and the public good.

We are committed to:

• Encouraging informed discussion about AI, sustainability and responsible innovation
• Exploring how AI can contribute positively to society and global challenges
• Developing AI knowledge, skills and capability responsibly and ethically
• Supporting research that examines both the benefits and risks of AI
• Embedding sustainability considerations into AI innovation, decision-making, and policy discussions

Preparing students for an AI-enabled and sustainable future

The relationship between AI and sustainability will shape many of the opportunities and challenges facing society in the coming decades.

By supporting students, researchers and staff to engage critically with these issues, we aim to develop the knowledge, skills and judgement needed to use AI responsibly. Our goal is to help our community create positive outcomes for people, communities and the planet while contributing to a more sustainable future.