Artificial intelligence is shaping industries, research, and daily life—but what does it mean for sustainability? The rapid expansion of AI requires enormous energy and water resources, even as researchers work to make systems more efficient and less resource-intensive. At the same time, AI applications are transforming human–environment relationships and raising new questions about equity, adaptation, and policy. This panel will bring together CSU experts to explore the sustainability impacts of AI—from data center energy use and water demands to broader implications for resource allocation and our changing relationship with the environment.

Panelists:

Tamee Albrecht, Department of Ecosystem Science and Sustainability
Clint Carney, Colorado River Policy Specialist, Colorado Water Conservation Board
James Hale, Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology
Sudeep Pasricha, Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Moderator: Gene Kelly, SoGES Faculty Research Liaison, Director of the Agricultural Experiment Station and Associate Dean of Extension