Generative AI In Social Impact

Earlier this year, NationSwell convened a virtual roundtable of cross-sector industry experts, policymakers, and thought leaders to discuss the most pressing questions surrounding AI-driven solutions in social impact, philanthropy, and sustainability. Here are some insights from that conversation:

Center stakeholder concerns about AI in developing your response. As the use of generative AI surges, organizations and stakeholders are increasingly concerned about its impact on their own realities – consumers are focused on data privacy, businesses on cybersecurity, employees on job stability, and the list goes on. It’s important to consider your role in mitigating concerns or providing education on AI’s significance, whether that means including all employees in training about AI or increasing funding for nonprofits to combat misinformation in advance of the 2024 election.?

Build formal responsible tech policies and practices, and revisit them often to ensure? alignment with new technologies. As society becomes more intertwined with technology, especially those with big unknowns like generative AI, it’s important for businesses to prepare themselves with responsible tech practices – similar to the development of policies for human rights and sustainability. Though there are no regulations or requirements for this yet, companies that anticipate the impacts of technology on their business and role will be ahead of the curve when interfacing with stakeholders. Check out examples from the NationSwell community: Atlassian, Workday, and Unity.??

For companies especially involved with AI, build a cross-departmental committee dedicated to responsibility and ethics. AI has long been a tool for many companies, but generative AI and other future technologies bring significant risks for privacy, safety, and ethics. A dedicated committee with representatives from across the business can ensure long-term focus on safety and responsibility, especially as technologies evolve and create new questions.

Focus on and invest in communities at risk of being left behind by developments in AI. There are already large gaps in broadband access, digital readiness, and a myriad of other issues based on race, socioeconomic status, or geography. These are the same communities at risk of being left behind or harmed by AI, and it is? important that companies and purpose-driven leaders center them in their work to avoid perpetuating the flaws of existing systems.?

Be prepared for risks, but acknowledge the transformative possibilities of this moment of unprecedented attention on a new technology. Generative AI is this moment’s hot topic, and rarely (if ever) has there been such global attention on a nascent technology that everyone anticipates will become an everyday tool. Though there are many risks to consider, this is also a moment for collaboration among stakeholders across industries, governments, and geographies. It is possible, and necessary, to enter this era ready to collaborate and create an environment where AI is only a force for good.

Amidst today’s climate crisis, many believe artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t just tech—it’s a critical key to accelerating decarbonization. Join NationSwell for a virtual panel with thought leaders, experts, and innovators to delve deep into the transformative potential of AI in addressing climate-related issues, as we pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future. Learn more