The risks of artificial intelligence for environmental and social impact assessment in developing countries

Environmental and social impact assessments (ESIAs) are intended to evaluate the potential effects of proposed projects or economic activities on the natural environment and human communities. They are an essential tool for the conservation and sustainable use of environmental resources. In practice, such assessments are the prerogative of experts who mobilize a multitude of tools.

The use of artificial intelligence tools to carry out ESIAs is not new. It dates back to the 1980s. However, the renewed interest in these technological artifacts since 2010 raises new questions.

In this policy lunch, Professor Pag-Yendu M. Yentcharé will share his thoughts on the risks posed by artificial intelligence tools for the analysis of environmental and social impacts, a crucial stage in ESIA, particularly in the context of developing countries.