UDC Computer Science Doctor to Speak at Muncyt Conference | Corbi Citizen Science
A Coruña, Spain – – Dr. Verónica Bolón, a computer science expert at the Universidade da Coruña (UDC), will deliver a public lecture this evening exploring the growing intersection of artificial intelligence and environmental sustainability. The talk, scheduled for at the Muncyt museum, is part of the Corbi Citizen Science initiative led by the Fundación CorBi.
Dr. Bolón, who has spent 17 years working in the field of artificial intelligence, currently directs the UDC-Inditex Chair of AI in Green Algorithms. Her work focuses on developing algorithms that are not only effective but also energy-efficient, a critical consideration as AI becomes increasingly integrated into daily life. She began her research into the logical reasoning capabilities of computer programs at a time when public interest in the technology was largely focused on social networking platforms like Facebook.
The Hidden Environmental Cost of AI
The increasing ubiquity of AI is accompanied by a significant, often overlooked, environmental impact. Dr. Bolón emphasizes that the widespread use of AI consumes substantial amounts of energy. “Most people aren’t aware that technological tools also pollute because it’s something ethereal, but they have a big impact on the environment,” she stated. This pollution isn’t the result of physical waste, but rather the energy demands of the complex computations that power AI systems.
The energy consumption associated with AI varies depending on the task. Dr. Bolón specifically points to the creation of images using AI as a particularly energy-intensive activity. She suggests that individuals consider reducing their reliance on AI for purely recreational purposes, such as generating images, and instead utilize their own cognitive abilities for simpler tasks.
Algorithms for a Sustainable Future
Dr. Bolón’s research centers on “green algorithms” – a concept she believes should be as familiar to the public as recycling. These algorithms are designed to minimize energy consumption while maintaining performance. The development of such algorithms is crucial as AI continues to permeate various sectors, from healthcare and finance to transportation and manufacturing.
The lecture at Muncyt will likely delve into the challenges of balancing the benefits of AI with the need for environmental responsibility. While AI offers tremendous potential for solving complex problems, its unchecked growth could exacerbate existing environmental concerns. Dr. Bolón’s work highlights the importance of a mindful and sustainable approach to AI development and deployment.
Corbi Citizen Science and Public Engagement
The event is hosted as part of the Corbi Citizen Science initiative, a program dedicated to fostering public engagement with scientific research. The Fundación CorBi aims to make science accessible and relevant to the broader community through events like Dr. Bolón’s lecture. The Muncyt museum has previously hosted similar events, including a conference on cancer metastasis in .
Admission to the lecture is free and open to the public, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. The talk is expected to attract a diverse audience interested in the ethical and environmental implications of emerging technologies.
Broader Context: AI and Women in STEM
Dr. Bolón’s participation in this event also aligns with broader efforts to promote the participation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The Muncyt and the UDC Faculty of Computer Science recently hosted an event on , celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. That event featured talks by CITIC researchers, including Dr. Bolón, on topics ranging from artificial intelligence to cybersecurity and quantum computing. Her presentation, titled “Advances and Challenges in Artificial Intelligence—And Why We Still Don’t Need to Fear Robots!”, offered an overview of the history of AI and its current trajectory.
The increasing visibility of female researchers like Dr. Bolón is vital for inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers, and for ensuring that the development of AI reflects a diversity of perspectives and values. Her work serves as a reminder that technological innovation must be guided by a commitment to both progress and sustainability.