AI’s Impact on Climate, Data, and Growth: Insights from Connected Conference Talks
The first Connected international conference held in Astana on Oct. 18, brought together experts to discuss the future of the economy, climate change, and data security, with a specific focus on the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping these areas.
Over 1,500 delegates from more than 20 countries participated in the conference, which aimed to conceptualize the vision of the future world, including Kazakhstan, over the next 20-30 years. Serik Tolukpayev, entrepreneur, investor, and founder of the Aitas agro-industrial holding, emphasized the importance of finding a path to global harmony in the future.
During the opening ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Tamara Duisenova delivered a welcoming speech from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, highlighting the country’s efforts to create an academic hub and boost scientific and innovative potential.
The plenary session titled “An Informed View of the Future: A Worldview Approach” gathered futurists, historians, and AI experts from various countries to discuss how AI is transforming the future landscape. Speakers addressed the potential of AI in combating climate change while emphasizing the importance of ethics, sustainability, and security.
Futurist Gerd Leonhard warned about the side effects of AI technology’s rapid growth and emphasized the need to use AI as a tool for building a better future. Kay Firth-Butterfield, CEO of Good Tech Advisory, raised concerns about the environmental impact of AI, urging for more responsible use of the technology.
Nobel laureate Rae Kwon Chung advocated for a shift from traditional economic growth models to a sustainable model, promoting economic progress while reducing environmental impacts. He emphasized the need for a quality-focused market system to address the imbalance between the market, people, and the planet.
The conference also discussed issues related to AI and data accuracy, highlighting the biases present in large language models and the need for more diverse and updated information. Overall, the event covered topics such as technology and human synergy, sustainable development, climate future, and global competitiveness in higher education and science.
