Page 59 - AI for Good - Impact Report

AI for Good

Conclusion

AI holds immense potential to drive positive change, but like any tool, its impact depends on how
it is used. Governments, businesses, and society must work together to steer AI toward advancing
social good rather than causing harm. While AI can be used to decarbonize economies, reduce
inequalities, and improve health outcomes, it can also be misused, monopolize industries and
increase inequality. Ensuring AI aligns with the SDGs is critical to maximizing the benefits to
society.

To achieve this, governments must take proactive steps. First, aligning AI development with
sustainable goals and following best practices will ensure that new use cases contribute to social
and environmental progress. This means creating policies that incentivize AI projects that focus
on long-term societal benefits over short-term profits.

Governments also need to provide funding for AI initiatives that might not be commercially
profitable initially but address critical social or environmental matters, such as climate change
or health care access in underserved regions.

Transparency is another key aspect. AI systems must be open about how they work and which
datasets they use to avoid biases or abuses in decision-making. Clear regulations should be in
place to ensure ethical AI deployment, and users should be informed about how their data is
being used and be offered a right of reply.
In addition, ensuring that marginalized groups—such as women and minorities—have access to
skills development program is vital. By promoting diversity in the tech workforce and closing the
digital skills gap, governments can help ensure that AI benefits everyone equally and reduces
job displacement and transition impacts.

Furthermore, innovative financial models are necessary to ensure AI’s benefits are shared
equitably across society. This includes creating systems that prevent wealth concentration
among a few tech giants and ensure fair compensation and transition pathways for workers in
AI-affected industries.

Finally, access to AI technology should be broad to ensure that the benefits of AI are shared
globally, not just concentrated in wealthier countries or large corporations. At the same time,
ongoing technological improvements are needed to minimize AI's environmental footprint,
ensuring its use does not contribute to long-term ecological damage.

This list of focus areas and key considerations can help support governments and policymakers
to successfully channel AI in support of the UN SDGs, ensuring that AI initiatives are ethical,
inclusive, and effective.

1) AI Policy, Governance and Ethical Standards

Developing a cohesive framework that integrates AI policies, governance, and ethical standards
is essential. Clear and effective policies guide the ethical and equitable deployment of AI
technologies, ensuring they align with national goals and the UN SDGs. Strong governance
and regulatory guardrails ensure AI systems are used responsibly, minimizing risks related to
privacy, security, and fairness. Establishing ethical standards guarantees that AI respects human
rights and societal values, fostering trust and accountability in its development and application.

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