An Elemental Ethics for Artificial Intelligence: Water as Resistance Within AI’s Value Chain

Konsep Inti

Emergence of elemental ethics in response to environmental harm caused by AI's value chain.

Abstrak

This article explores the emergence of an "elemental ethics" in response to the environmental impact of AI's value chain, focusing on water-intensive data centers and lithium extraction. It highlights grassroots activism resisting these practices and advocates for a more grounded and ethical approach to AI design and governance.
Directory:

Introduction

Activism against environmental harm caused by AI.

Data Centers and Minerals in AI Value Chain

Water-intensive data centers and lithium extraction.

Elemental Ethics Emergence

Grassroots resistance to harmful practices.

Methods

Research methodology and case studies.

Case Studies: MOSACAT & Council of Atacameno People

Activism against Google data center project and lithium extraction.

Mobilizing Water to Mobilize Communities

Importance of water in activism.

Elemental Injustice

Critique of injustices related to water extraction.

Elemental Ignorance

Lack of information on underground water availability.

Elemental Disruption

Disruption of elemental relationships with water.

Elemental Threat

Threats posed by water extraction on communities' wellbeing.

Statistik

"Water-intensive data centres, polluting mineral extraction, and e-waste dumping are part of AI’s footprint."
"Global AI demand may account for 4.1 – 6.6 billion cubic meters of water use by 2027."
"Lithium is crucial for building rechargeable batteries powering wireless devices."

Kutipan

"Water is essential for the Lickan Antay people... It is sacred."
"We are leaving people without water to take the water to the lithium operations... We will go to great lengths to show that our people today are close to extinction due to mining."

Wawasan Utama Disaring Dari

An Elemental Ethics for Artificial Intelligence

by Sebastian Le... pada arxiv.org 03-25-2024

https://arxiv.org/pdf/2403.14677.pdf

Pertanyaan yang Lebih Dalam

How can an elemental ethics framework be integrated into mainstream discussions on AI sustainability?

Incorporating an elemental ethics framework into mainstream discussions on AI sustainability involves recognizing the fundamental role that elements like water, air, and earth play in the development and operation of technology. By shifting the focus from viewing these elements as mere resources to acknowledging them as essential agents in our everyday lives, we can bring attention to the environmental impacts of AI systems. This perspective challenges the traditional view of technology as abstract and immaterial by highlighting the tangible components that make up AI infrastructure.
To integrate elemental ethics into mainstream discourse on AI sustainability, it is crucial to emphasize how technologies such as data centers and lithium extraction rely heavily on natural elements for their functioning. By centering discussions around these elemental relationships, we can raise awareness about the environmental consequences of resource-intensive practices within the tech industry. This approach encourages a more holistic understanding of sustainability that considers not only human well-being but also the well-being of ecosystems and non-human entities impacted by technological developments.
Furthermore, incorporating indigenous perspectives that prioritize a deep connection with nature and respect for all living beings can enrich conversations around ethical considerations in technology development. Indigenous knowledge systems often offer valuable insights into sustainable practices and harmonious coexistence with the environment, which can inform ethical frameworks for designing and implementing AI systems responsibly.

What role do indigenous perspectives play in shaping ethical considerations within the tech industry?

Indigenous perspectives play a significant role in shaping ethical considerations within the tech industry by offering alternative worldviews that prioritize interconnectedness with nature, community well-being, and respect for diverse forms of life. These perspectives challenge dominant Western paradigms centered around exploitation of resources and profit-driven approaches to technological innovation.
Indigenous knowledge systems emphasize principles such as reciprocity, stewardship of land and resources, intergenerational equity, and holistic thinking – values that are often overlooked in conventional tech industry practices focused solely on efficiency and economic growth. By integrating indigenous perspectives into ethical frameworks within the tech sector, companies can adopt more sustainable approaches to product development, resource management, data privacy issues,
Additionally,...

How can grassroots activism influence policy changes regarding resource extraction for technology development?

Grassroots activism plays a crucial role in influencing policy changes related to resource extraction for technology development by raising awareness about environmental injustices...
Moreover,...