By Olivia Manzagol

Two buzzwords: artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainable. They are all around us as we started using them in our daily lives, jobs (this whole movement is creating jobs exponentially in these two areas), and even in future planning. Individually, they are essential, but together, they are very powerful. Here is an example:
In 2021, Helsinki, Finland, embarked on an ambitious project to use AI to improve its sustainability efforts. The city partnered with local tech companies and researchers to develop AI algorithms that could help optimize energy usage, reduce waste, and enhance overall sustainability.

One of the key initiatives was developing an AI-powered system to optimize the city’s heating network, which provides heat to over 90% of Helsinki’s buildings. The AI system analyzed data from sensors throughout the city to predict heating demand, identify inefficiencies, and optimize heat flow through the network. As a result, the city was able to reduce its carbon emissions by 20% and save millions of euros in heating costs. Another initiative focused on using AI to improve waste management. The city deployed smart waste bins with sensors to detect when they were full and automatically schedule pickups. The AI system analyzed data from these sensors to optimize collection routes, reducing the number of trucks on the road and reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

The city also used AI to optimize its public transportation system, analyzing data on traffic patterns, weather conditions, and passenger demand to improve the efficiency of bus and tram routes. This reduced emissions and made public transportation more convenient and reliable for residents.
Helsinki’s use of AI in sustainability efforts has been a remarkable success. The city has reduced its carbon footprint, saved money, and improved the quality of life for its residents. The project serves as a great model for other cities around the world looking to harness the power of AI to create a more sustainable future.

Olivia Manzagol is an economist, a finance specialist in energy, sustainability, and private equity, a university lecturer,
a strategist, a mentor, and an author. She has been living in the US for about 25 years.