Artificial Intelligence Saves 1.5 Billion Liters Of Water And Reduces Carbon Emissions Equivalent To One Million Trees

Abdullah bin Sharaf Alghamdi, President of the Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA), highlighted the environmental benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) at the Saudi Green Initiative Forum 2024. He noted that AI has saved 150 million sheets of paper and conserved 1.5 billion litres of water. The event took place alongside the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP16) in Riyadh.

Alghamdi discussed how digital transformation and AI innovation have significantly impacted the environment. These advancements have reduced carbon dioxide emissions, equating to planting a million trees. Additionally, digital services have saved citizens an average of 20 working days annually. He stressed that these efforts are crucial as the world faces unprecedented challenges like record high temperatures and increasing climate risks.

Under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Saudi Arabia is committed to a sustainable future. The Saudi Green Initiative is central to these efforts, featuring over 80 initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions, expanding green spaces, and protecting the environment. Alghamdi emphasized that this comprehensive national strategy is vital for transformative change.

SDAIA plays a crucial role in monitoring urban areas in Riyadh by analyzing satellite image data through the Smart C national platform for smart cities. This involves examining 540 gigabytes of data annually across 4 billion square meters. As a national reference for data and AI, SDAIA ensures effective urban management and planning.

The SDAIA president also highlighted key digital services transforming government operations and empowering citizens through various platforms. The Tawakkalna app serves over 32 million users, managing up to 1 billion interactions daily. Meanwhile, Nafath handles over 3 billion digital interactions, resulting in approximately 260,000 daily visits to service centres.

Charitable Work and Energy Efficiency

The National Platform for Charitable Work "Ehsan" supports 1,150 environmental projects with 480 charities involved. Additionally, the Deem government cloud-computing platform has integrated 260 data centres, cutting energy consumption by 64 megawatts and eliminating around 600,000 tons of carbon emissions.

AI has also contributed to renewable energy development in line with Saudi Vision's goal of generating half its power from renewable sources by 2030. Alghamdi invited everyone to join Saudi Arabia's efforts for a flourishing planet while emphasizing SDAIA’s commitment to enhancing data and AI utilization with public and private sector partners.

The Kingdom's dedication to sustainability reflects its determination to address global environmental challenges effectively. Through strategic initiatives and technological advancements, Saudi Arabia aims to create a greener future for humanity.

With inputs from SPA