As AI becomes increasingly integrated into every sector of society, it’s essential to critically assess its environmental implications. In this balanced and research-based talk, Jennifer Turliuk presents insights from her MIT research on the Net Climate Impact of AI, which examines both the climate harms and potential climate benefits of AI systems.

The presentation explores the energy demands and emissions associated with AI development and deployment, alongside examples of how AI is being used to reduce emissions in areas like energy optimization, agriculture, etc. Jennifer introduces a systems-thinking framework - the Net Climate Impact Score (NCIS) - to help assess when and where AI’s benefits may outweigh its costs.

Drawing from her MIT research, work with MIT’s entrepreneurship center and MIT Climate Policy Center, and the Sustainable AI course she taught at MIT, Jennifer discusses systemic risks such as rebound effects and unintended consequences. The talk concludes with actionable recommendations for industry, policymakers, and researchers on how to align AI innovation with planetary boundaries and climate goals.

This session is ideal for those seeking a clear-eyed, interdisciplinary perspective on the complex relationship between AI and climate - and how we can steer technological development toward more sustainable outcomes.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping energy systems, infrastructure, and decision-making - often with profound but underexamined climate impacts. From data center emissions and water use to algorithmic influence on climate policy, markets, and communities, AI is increasingly embedded in the systems driving climate risk and response.

This talk explores AI and climate through the lenses of law, governance, justice, and ethics. Drawing on research, teaching, and legal work, it examines where existing legal frameworks fall short, how governance mechanisms are emerging in the absence of regulation, and why justice must be central to any sustainable AI strategy.

The talk concludes by outlining practical pathways for governing AI’s climate impacts, including regulatory design, institutional accountability, and ethical frameworks that move beyond voluntary principles toward real-world impact.

Join Jennifer Turliuk, a seasoned entrepreneur, technologist and climate tech investor, as she takes you on a journey through the pivotal role of AI in addressing climate challenges. Drawing from her work as Practice Leader, Climate and Energy AI at the Martin Trust Center for Entrepreneurship (where she developed AI tools for climate entrepreneurs), and Partner with Climate Angels and Climate Capital Syndicate (one of the most active funders of climate startups), Jennifer uncovers the dynamic synergy between artificial intelligence and climate action.

Discover groundbreaking AI applications that are surfacing relevant climate regulations and incentives, selecting high potential climate startups, enhancing home energy efficiencies, devising market selection strategies for climate innovators, and more. Delve into captivating case studies that illustrate AI's instrumental role in fostering a sustainable future.

This enlightening talk not only highlights the transformative impact of AI on environmental stewardship but also sparks a dialogue on how technology and sustainability can coalesce to forge a resilient and thriving planet.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping society - and increasingly, the climate. From energy and water use in data centers to AI-enabled climate solutions, today’s learners are inheriting both the risks and responsibilities of an AI-driven, climate-constrained world. Education plays a critical role in determining how prepared they will be.

Drawing on her experience as Practice Leader of Climate & Energy AI at MIT’s entrepreneurship center, a former climate tech venture investor, and an education entrepreneur who exited through acquisition, Jennifer Turliuk explores how AI and climate intersect - and what that means for education.

This session provides:

• A clear overview of AI’s climate impacts, both harmful and potentially beneficial
• Why AI and climate literacy matter for learners
• The role of governance, ethics, and justice in shaping responsible AI futures
• Practical examples, learning activities, and resources

Designed for educators, school leaders, higher education institutions, and learning-focused organizations, this talk highlights education as a powerful lever for shaping more equitable, sustainable technological futures.