Smart digital platforms for carbon neutral management and services: Business models based on ITU standards for green digital transformation

Abstract

This brief research report focuses on the effects of artificial intelligence (AI) on the environment, by analyzing the latest documents issued by major standard organizations such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Internet Society of China (ISC). By outlining the latest developments into a platform canvas for carbon neutrality management and services, this report identifies the potential of “AI of the environment” (i.e., the material composition and environmental impact of AI itself) and “AI for the environment” (i.e., the purposeful use of smart applications to benefit the environment). The role of AI is contextualized in the digital platform design for the provision of services on carbon emission data, which serves as the material foundation for smart services facing both the producers and the consumers of such information. Contributing to the design of business models that enable open innovations, this report discusses the emission impact reduction mechanisms that can optimize, substitute, induce, manage, and facilitate processes and services, indicating the potential of AI-enabled smart services such as forecasting, planning, and recommendation systems. Despite the limited disciplinary considerations and detailed discussions on specific AI technologies, this report provides a simple, practical, and flexible technology roadmap that can be used as a guide for researchers and practitioners to refine their operations and designs and to follow best practices. This report succinctly visualizes key elements of digital platforms of/for GHG emission reduction and their enabling mechanisms, serving as an AI technology roadmap for future research and innovation in the field.

Han-Teng Liao

Lead Data Scientist

研发兴趣包括 数字化绿色化双化转型﹑碳中和 数智平台﹑及 人工智能科技向善。 My research interests include twin green digital transition, carbon neutrality, and Artificial Intelligence for Good.

Chung-Lien Pan (潘仲亷)

CFO/COO

He continuously work in the area of FinTech, including the cross-disciplinary work in the area of green digital transformation with the team members of the university-level GDT for Green and Digital Transformation and the ESG Data-Driven Decisions Lab at Nanfang College-Guangzhou, formally known as Nanfang College of Sun-Yat Sen University.