We invite you to read the column written by our partner, Antonio Rubilar, where he addressed Chile’s challenge to move towards sustainable Artificial Intelligence.
A recent study by Accenture projected that emissions related to artificial intelligence will increase more than tenfold by 2030. There is a specific explanation for this figure: AI, especially in its generative version, consumes large amounts of energy to train and run models that process millions of data points in real time. Sectors such as telecommunications, banking, logistics, retail, and mining—all of which have high AI adoption rates—are seeing exponential growth in their energy demand.
In this scenario, the challenge for Chile is urgent. Our energy matrix still depends partially on fossil fuels, and if concrete measures are not taken to control this technological consumption, we could be heading toward a contradiction: advancing in digital transformation while regressing in sustainability.
This becomes even more relevant when we consider that this year, Decree No. 12 of the Ministry of Science, Technology, Knowledge, and Innovation was published, updating the National Artificial Intelligence Policy and establishing guidelines for the ethical, responsible, and sustainable use of AI, specifically including the protection of the environment.
In addition to the above, Congress is discussing a bill that seeks to regulate the use of artificial intelligence systems. Article 7 establishes that systems that could cause harm to health, safety, fundamental rights protected by the Constitution, the environment, or consumer rights will be considered “high-risk systems.” This definition marks a turning point: the environmental impact of AI is beginning to be viewed with the same level of attention as its ethical or social impact. Moving forward with the passage of this law is essential.
At the same time, companies must begin preparing now by adopting concrete practices to develop “green AI.” This involves rethinking the entire life cycle of artificial intelligence models, from how data is collected and processed, to the type of technological infrastructure used, to how models are trained and optimized. For example, as a country, we have a great opportunity in data centers powered by renewable energy.
In this regard, to ensure that AI is “green,” regulations should be put in place to require any data center or other facility with high energy consumption to enter into a contract ensuring that a significant portion of the energy it uses is renewable. This will generate more demand for clean energy, which will encourage investment in renewable energy.
Artificial intelligence and sustainability cannot be separate paths. A truly intelligent future will be one where both advance hand in hand.
Column written by:
Antonio Rubilar | Partner | arubilar@az.cl
