PwC and Microsoft Explore Economic Impact of AI for Environmental Management

PwC and Microsoft have collaborated on research aimed at uncovering the economic potential of utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) for environmental management. Lynne Baber, Partner and Sustainability Leader at PwC U.K., emphasizes the growing societal expectations for

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organizations to integrate sustainability into their core operations, moving beyond mere compliance to embedding it within their DNA. The report underscores the transformative role of AI in addressing environmental challenges across industries such as agriculture, water, energy, and transport.

The findings suggest significant economic benefits and environmental impact from the widespread adoption of AI in environmental management. By 2030, AI applications could contribute up to $5.2 trillion to the global economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 4%, and create 38.2 million new jobs worldwide. However, the report also highlights critical challenges in governance, resources, collaboration, and data quality that must be addressed to fully realize AI's potential. As Lucas Joppa from Microsoft and Celine Herweijer from PwC UK underscore, while AI holds immense promise, concerted efforts and shared responsibilities are necessary to shape its future for the betterment of society and the planet.

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