AI as an Ally for Sustainability or a Risk for the Environment and the Job Market?
The 3rd Multistakeholder Forum of Cassa Depositi e Prestiti brought together experts, institutions, and businesses to explore an increasingly relevant topic: the role of innovation in the sustainable transition.
Among the most debated issues was the impact of Artificial Intelligence on both professional and everyday life.
During the event, research conducted by BVA Doxa was presented, offering valuable insights into the perception of AI in Italy.
What Do the Data Tell Us?
AI is already an integral part of daily life: 72% of young people use it regularly, on average three times a week. However, concerns about its environmental impact are growing: 15% of people under 35 believe AI has a negative effect on the ecosystem—an increasing figure compared to 2023, expected to rise further in the future.
While AI is seen as a tool for progress and innovation, its energy consumption and the burden of digital infrastructures raise questions about its actual sustainability.
The AI industry could soon consume over 3% of global energy, surpassing entire industrial sectors. 68% of people under 35 believe AI can help reduce waste and optimize resource use. However, to achieve this, sustainability must be integrated into technology development from the outset—through algorithm optimization, energy-efficient models, and investments in renewable-powered data centers.
AI-driven automation also raises critical questions about the future of work. The study reveals that 77% of women and 69% of men fear AI may threaten their job security due to job displacement.
Some sectors are more at risk, such as customer service, data analysis, and back-office roles. However, new opportunities are emerging in fields like big data management, renewable energy, and sustainable supply chain optimization. AI is no longer just a trend but an increasingly significant part of daily life for professionals and young people alike.
Currently, 64% of young people surveyed use AI for studying and learning—proof that this technology can become a driver of education and professional growth, shifting from a threat to an opportunity.
Therefore, investing in transparency, ethics, and regulation is essential, ensuring fair algorithms that provide equal access to information without exacerbating digital inequalities.
ESG principles must serve as a guiding framework for AI development, steering companies toward responsible practices and sustainable business models.
Low impact, awareness, and responsibility.
The question is not whether to say "yes or no" to AI, but rather: "How do we want to use it?"
Discover how we combine Innovation and Sustainability as a driver of growth.