If used appropriately technology can free us from boring, repetitive tasks and enable us to focus time, energy and resources on more creative, rewarding and productive activities. However, when selecting which tools to use and for what purpose we should evaluate them in terms of cost, benefit and impact. We should understand what machines do, how they do it and why.
Artificial intelligence emerged within research labs, but has moved into the mainstream. Reported capabilities of AI have increased across a range of tasks that previously required human knowledge and skills. AI has become more controversial, as concerns grow regarding its impact on issues such as the environment and employment.
The promise of the open web to individuals and businesses was that by creating good content and attracting traffic they could earn a living online. The rise of AI search is changing this, by harvesting content and keeping the traffic. However, fewer humans motivated to create could lead to less original content.
From the work of scientists, engineers and themes found in science fiction stories, AI has taken centre stage across the world. In sectors from education, business, the arts, media and politics, to the environment, AI is portrayed in utopian and dystopian terms. This article looks at the nature and possible impact of the technology.
Search engines are sending fewer people to many websites. Increasingly, AI will answer questions without users needing to visit the webpages that contained the information. For a business that has spent years building organic traffic, this can be devastating. However, the use schema markup might increase traffic to their site.
Governments and organisations have promoted net zero policies, but the national grid might not meet future demand. Wind and solar are growing, but when the sun sets and wind drops power must still flow. Transition to sustainable energy generation, storage and transmission has challenges, but there are also opportunities.
Until recently most people had never knowingly used AI, although it was integrated within many services they used. The arrival of large language models (LLMs) led to millions of people using them for conversation and to carry out tasks. Understanding the technology can demystify the process of data analysis and pattern matching.
Sustainable technology is widely considered to be essential for solving environmental issues. However, there are many challenges. This article looks at different perspectives regarding issues around using technology such as smart grids and precision farming, compared to associated development and deployment costs.
