Convergence: Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing

CHAPTER 9Quantum Planet Hacking

Philip L. Frana, Associate Professor of Interdisciplinary Liberal Studies and Independent Scholars, James Madison University

Scientists are using data, algorithms, and artificial intelligence to pinpoint and develop solutions to human-caused environmental challenges. Deep neural networks are poring over data collected from urban environments and natural ecosystems. Computer scientists using artificial cognitive toolkits are designing sustainable infrastructure, detecting contaminants, and redefining our understanding of spiraling energy and resource consumption problems. Quantum AI platforms are a key component of the burgeoning green economy, which will move us from a take-make-waste linear model of growth to one that is circular, regenerative, and focused on society-wide benefits.

Unfortunately, AI is also generating its own potential environmental hazards. Even the most advanced machine intelligence computer chips have a high ecological impact relative to their weight. Energy, solvents, toxic materials, and scarce water are consumed in their manufacture. When in use, they are power hungry and contribute to emissions of greenhouse gasses. They are hard to recycle or dispose of properly.

Jack Ma of the online commerce giant Alibaba complained in 2017 that AI would cause “more pain than happiness” in coming years.^[1] While the application of artificial intelligence to problems of climate and the environment currently cuts both ways, in the upcoming ...