AI-driven DeepSeek's Interference in Global Climate Policy: Potential Impact and Consequences

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, the spotlight is increasingly turning towards the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and climate change. This op-ed, first published on the Centre for International Law (CIL)'s blogsite, delves into the various initiatives and discussions aimed at promoting sustainable AI and climate technology.

One such initiative is the SDM platform, which could potentially facilitate credit issuance to projects that actively engage AI in the emission reduction process, thereby promoting sustainable AI or climate technology. This platform aligns with the goals of the Technology Mechanism (Article 6.3), which enables governance coordination and support for developing states to align AI with sustainability objectives.

The European Union is already categorising AI models based on their carbon intensity, reflecting a growing awareness of the environmental impact of AI. On a global scale, a standard for licensed data centres could enforce sustainability in AI infrastructure, much like how Singapore already mandates approval for new data centres to ensure sustainable capacity.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change's Tech Committee (TEC) could play a significant role in integrating AI into sustainability policies, promoting energy-efficient AI technologies, and setting international standards for sustainable AI development. The UNFCCC's Tech Committee could also address the climate impact of AI, providing a legal basis under Article 10 of the Paris Agreement.

Policy intervention may be necessary to impact AI energy costs and avoid increases in energy consumption. This could involve regulation, carbon taxation, emission trading schemes, and emissions import taxes. Compliance with emissions regulations on AI could be enforced through transparency mandates, lifecycle carbon reporting, and financial penalties.

The discussion on AI and its climate impact will be an important topic in upcoming international forums such as the Paris AI Action Week, the AI for Good Summit, and COP30. Chinese start-up DeepSeek has made strides in this area with its highly efficient AI model (R1), which consumes less energy compared to existing designs. However, the efficiency of DeepSeek's R1 model has implications for Big Tech, which has invested heavily in power-hungry AI technologies.

As AI developers are now expected to justify their negative climate impact, government scrutiny of AI's high energy demands and emissions is likely to increase. The right to life may be affected by environmental harm caused by AI, further emphasising the need for sustainable AI practices.

Industry practices are also influenced by guidelines such as the OECD AI Principles, UNESCO's AI Ethics Recommendations, and ISO/IEC 42001, which emphasise AI's environmental impact. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) offer a framework for sustainable AI, particularly SDG 7 (Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Chinese developers have implemented a plan to optimise data-sharing mechanisms and establish integrated coordination between computing power and electricity supply to reduce high energy consumption in AI technology. This plan supports wider AI application in energy sectors like power grids and renewables, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and drive a green transition by 2030.

Jon Truby, visiting associate research professor in AI law and governance at the Centre for International Law, National University of Singapore, is at the forefront of these discussions. His insights and research contribute significantly to the understanding and development of sustainable AI practices.

In conclusion, the focus on sustainable AI and climate technology is gaining momentum, with various initiatives, discussions, and regulations aimed at promoting environmentally friendly AI practices. As we continue to develop and utilise AI, it is crucial to consider its impact on the environment and take steps to mitigate its carbon footprint.

AI-driven DeepSeek's Interference in Global Climate Policy: Potential Impact and Consequences