AI's Energy Problem Is Also a Climate Opportunity
Artificial intelligence has become one of the most contested topics in climate policy — and for good reason. The same data centres and models that promise better emissions monitoring, climate risk modelling, and resource optimisation are themselves a fast-growing source of electricity demand. Energy planners and environmental policymakers now have to deal with both sides of that equation simultaneously, not one at a time.
Artificial Intelligence, Environmental Management, and the Low-Carbon Economy by Wai Ching Poon (Routledge, 2026) is one of the few academic titles that treats AI's climate contribution and its climate cost as a single, connected problem. It moves from AI applications in environmental monitoring and decision-making through to the energy footprint of the infrastructure that makes those applications possible — a balanced, research-grounded framework rather than a one-sided case for or against AI.
Key Organisations
- International Energy Agency (IEA) — tracks electricity demand from data centres and AI infrastructure.
- IRENA — renewable energy strategies for the low-carbon transition.
Browse more titles in our Energy collection.
Q&A
Q: Is AI good or bad for the climate?
A: Both, depending on the application — this book treats AI as a tool for decarbonisation and a growing source of energy demand at the same time, rather than picking a side.
Q: What environmental applications of AI does the book cover?
A: Emissions monitoring, resource management, and climate risk modelling, among others.
Q: Does the book address AI's own energy consumption?
A: Yes — the energy and carbon footprint of AI and data infrastructure is treated as a central issue, not a footnote.
Q: Who is this book for?
A: Environmental policy experts, technology and AI professionals, sustainability researchers, academics, and corporate directors working on climate or technology strategy.
Q: Where can I buy Artificial Intelligence, Environmental Management, and the Low-Carbon Economy?
A: Directly from CLNZ Books — view the product page here. Price includes worldwide shipping; payment by credit card or PayPal.