New MSc program to consider the impact of AI on the SDGs

The course will analyse critically how artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies can be catalysts or inhibitors to achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Students will also learn how to approach real-world global sustainability problems with AI systems such as machine learning, how to measure and analyse the broader impact of AI and, more generally, what we could do to ensure that these technologies become sustainable,” explained Professor John Shawe-Taylor, (UCL Computer Science), UNESCO Chair in AI and director of the program. 

“Importantly, it will introduce our computer science students to the environmental challenges facing the planet, such as climate change and biodiversity loss, as well as the social impacts these can have,” added Maria Perez Ortiz, Senior Research Fellow in UCL Computer Science and co-lead and admission tutor of the new program. 

“For example, how climate disasters can lead to refugee crises, or how environmental risks are leading to food insecurity and water shortages.”

As part of the MSc, students undertake a research project. Recent topics include: using computer vision and drone imaging to identify types of weeds and their location, in order to protect crops; and analysing large-scale epidemiological datasets with machine learning to find lifestyle changes that reduce the risks of dementia and other diseases.

One of the modules forming part of the MSc was introduced this year as an elective on three other UCL Computer Science master’s programs. The AI for Sustainable Development module provides students with an understanding of the different SDGs and how artificial intelligence techniques such as machine learning can be used to address them. It has already proved popular, with 35 students selecting it as part of their master’s course.

“Increasingly, students are expecting aspects of sustainable development to form part of their education, whatever degree they are taking,” said Simon Knowles, UCL’s Head of Coordination (SDGs). “This exciting new course is a great example of how different disciplines across UCL’s faculties can incorporate sustainable development into their taught courses.

A 2020-21 Sustainability Skills Survey by the National Union of Students found that 91% of students agreed their place of study should actively incorporate and promote sustainable development and that 84% would like to see sustainable development actively incorporated and promoted through all courses.

The deadline for applications for the MSc is 29 April 2022.

Links

• Module on AI for Sustainable Development 
• MSc on Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development 
• UCL SDGs Initiative