AIs are playing an increasingly important role in society. Used both personally and professionally, they are part of the daily lives of many consumers. But these tools, practical as they are, are also energy-hungry. That’s why AFNOR has published a notice to help AI suppliers (and all interested parties) measure the environmental impact of this technology and move “in the direction of frugal artificial intelligence”.
Artificial intelligences are fascinating, but they also raise many questions about how they work. AFNOR has deliberately excluded questions relating to ethical and social issues, to focus solely on the environmental aspect.
“The objective of this document is to share a guide to definitions, methods and good practices useful for assessing and reducing the environmental impact of an AI system and the digital services that would use it,” explains the organization. “This document is aimed at all players in digital services and those seeking to implement a service using AI. It contributes to the social and environmental responsibility objectives of economic players, and raises awareness among individual service users. Finally, this guide is a methodological basis for the integration of environmental criteria in the purchase of services including an AI system, for example by public purchasers.”
The 100-page guide is open to all, and can be consulted directly online.
