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Balancing progress and sustainability using AI

Vaseline

The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris have been described as the greenest in Olympic history. In addition to the fact that these events are truly global in nature, bringing people together in harmony and showcasing human excellence, the organizers plan to demonstrate that green measures can be integrated into such a grand event. They want to make it clear that sustainability does not diminish the impact of such a multi-faceted event; on the contrary, it can complement its objectives and add value to them.

The organizers of Paris 2024 have set an ambitious goal: to halve the carbon footprint of the games compared to previous editions. The aim of Paris 2024 is to demonstrate the existence of an alternative model by coordinating all relevant parties and focusing on all potential sources of emissions.

In the past, the Olympic Games have had a significant impact on the environment, including through land use, waste production, CO2 emissions and water use.

Deforestation, habitat destruction and community displacement were common consequences of large-scale construction projects in host cities to provide stadiums, accommodation facilities and infrastructure. The construction process was one of the leading causes of pollution and ecological degradation due to the enormous amounts of waste produced and the resources it consumed.

These Olympic Games will clearly demonstrate that people can unite to pursue a common goal while reducing negative impacts on the environment.

Today’s society is driven by economic gain, and Maltese society is no exception. It seems to have lost hope that progress, prosperity and environmental management can be balanced and that all three can coexist. This dismissal is not only short-sighted, but also dangerous.

The principles of sustainability and responsible environmental management must be woven into the fabric of economic progress. It is critical to recognize that our collective future depends on striking a balance between profit and the well-being of the planet and those who live on it. It is about realizing that our collective future and that of future generations depends on the integration of environmental considerations into every aspect of corporate and public policy.

Recently I had the opportunity to observe two strikingly different approaches to urban development. Trident Park in Mrieħel is a shining example of careful planning, with an emphasis on preserving heritage, improving aesthetics and creating green spaces that promote the well-being of those who work there and visitors.

On the other hand, while walking in Salina, I was struck by the ugly state of the landscape due to the presence of an ugly caravan park. Here, unchecked exploitation has only benefited land grabbers, neglecting the long-term well-being and dignity of the community and the natural beauty of the area. Political expediency has completely ignored the well-being of the local community and the preservation of the area’s natural beauty.

These contrasting examples underscore the importance of responsible development practices that harmonize economic interests with the well-being of the environment and society.

AI technologies provide a range of tools to tackle environmental problems-Claudio Farrugia

Pope Paul VI emphasizes in his encyclical Populorum Progressio that all development must enhance human dignity. In Laudato Si, Pope Francis expands on this and advocates a holistic approach to development that integrates environmental management. Both emphasize the interconnectedness of human well-being and ecological health, and call for sustainable progress that respects the dignity of every person and protects our planet.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has great potential for driving progress and promoting environmental stewardship, especially in the context of major events such as the Olympic Games. AI-powered solutions have the ability to maximize resource use, reduce waste and improve energy efficiency in construction and operations. AI technologies provide a range of tools to tackle environmental problems, such as predictive analytics for sustainable planning and smart monitoring systems for energy and water use at events.

Furthermore, developments in AI technology within the transport and logistics sector have the potential to optimize mobility, resulting in a decrease in CO2 emissions from travel. The integration of AI into preparations for the Olympic Games shows the potential of technological advances in driving progress and promoting a more sustainable approach to hosting major international events.

While AI has the potential to greatly benefit society, its unregulated use can also pose risks. The reckless or deliberate use of AI has the potential to endanger lives and exacerbate existing social inequalities.

This topic will be the main theme of a seminar led by two highly respected experts in the sector, Prof. Alexei Dingli and Rev. Jean Gové. Together they will delve into the important topic of the impact of AI on our society.

By promoting open discussions and raising awareness, we have the opportunity to collectively influence AI technologies to align with our shared values ​​and contribute to the betterment of society.

The Malta Chapter of the Centesimus Annus Pro Pontifice invites the public to attend the seminar entitled “AI Dominance: A Blessing or a Curse” on Thursday, May 9 at 6:30 PM at Dar il-Ħanin Samaritan, Santa Venera. For further information and registration, please send an email to [email protected]. Claudio Farrugia is a member of Centesimus Annus Pro Pontifice Malta.

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