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Deploying digitalisation and artificial intelligence in sustainable development research

Author

Listed:
  • Walter Leal Filho

    (Hamburg University of Applied Sciences
    Manchester Metropolitan University)

  • Peter Yang

    (Case Western Reserve University)

  • João Henrique Paulino Pires Eustachio

    (University of São Paulo)

  • Anabela Marisa Azul

    (University of Coimbra, CIBB-Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology
    University of Coimbra, IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research)

  • Joshua C. Gellers

    (University of North Florida)

  • Agata Gielczyk

    (University of Science and Technology)

  • Maria Alzira Pimenta Dinis

    (University Fernando Pessoa (UFP))

  • Valerija Kozlova

    (RISEBA University of Applied Sciences)

Abstract

Many industrialised countries have benefited from the advent of twenty-first century technologies, especially automation, that have fundamentally changed manufacturing and industrial production processes. The next step in the evolution of automation is the development of artificial intelligence (AI), i.e. intelligence which is demonstrated by machines and systems, which cannot only perform tasks but also work synergistically with humans and nature. Intelligent systems that can see, analyse situations and respond sensitively to real-time cues, from human gestures and facial expressions to pedestrians crossing a busy street, will reshape transportation, precision agriculture, biodiversity conservation, environmental modelling, public health, construction and manufacturing, as well as initiatives designed to promote prosperity on Earth. This paper explores the connections between AI systems and sustainable development (SD) research. By means of a literature review, world survey, and case studies, ways in which AI can support research on SD and, inter alia, contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world, are identified.

Suggested Citation

  • Walter Leal Filho & Peter Yang & João Henrique Paulino Pires Eustachio & Anabela Marisa Azul & Joshua C. Gellers & Agata Gielczyk & Maria Alzira Pimenta Dinis & Valerija Kozlova, 2023. "Deploying digitalisation and artificial intelligence in sustainable development research," Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, Springer, vol. 25(6), pages 4957-4988, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:endesu:v:25:y:2023:i:6:d:10.1007_s10668-022-02252-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s10668-022-02252-3
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    Cited by:

    1. Qiang Wang & Fuyu Zhang & Rongrong Li, 2025. "Artificial intelligence and sustainable development during urbanization: Perspectives on AI R&D innovation, AI infrastructure, and AI market advantage," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 33(1), pages 1136-1156, February.
    2. OGREAN Claudia, 2023. "Interplays Between Artificial Intelligence And Sustainability In Business / Management. A Bibliometric Analysis," Studies in Business and Economics, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Faculty of Economic Sciences, vol. 18(2), pages 336-357, August.
    3. Dervis Kirikkaleli & Samar Aad & Nurdan Ozrecberoglu Kirikkaleli, 2025. "Sustainable development and investment in artificial intelligence in the USA," Palgrave Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 12(1), pages 1-7, December.

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