There are many ethical worries around AI, yet Dragonfly AI takes a positive outlook and argues from predicting storms to improved sourcing of key minerals, that it can make a real positive environmental difference.

AI for Eco-Excellence

AI-driven models can predict hurricane paths up to 30% more accurately than traditional models. The lifesaving potential is huge.

Unilever isn’t exactly tracking hurricanes but it is utilizing AI to do good for the planet. It’s doing this by monitoring and improving how raw materials are sourced which makes its supply chain more sustainable.

Pretty sexy stuff.

Unilever's AI Initiative

One of Unilever’s initiatives is using AI to analyze satellite images that monitor the earth’s health where the raw materials are being sourced. The artificial intelligence algorithms provide insights to the brand on whether their suppliers are adhering to sustainable practices.

Not only is this insanely clever. It is actively supporting the planet by ensuring sustainable farming practices are being prioritized and lowering the impact on the environment.

The Broader Impact on Sustainability

But wait, there’s more...

Unilever isn’t greenwashing or showing off, the CPG giant is setting an industry standard. This level of global influence is monumental in encouraging other brands to make planet-first decisions.

There are so many ways that AI can be integrated to address environmental challenges. Retail and consumer goods specifically can improve the sustainability of their supply chains, monitor sources of raw materials, and ultimately reduce their carbon footprint.

Heaps of brands have made commitments but the brands that are leading the charge when it comes to carbon neutrality; Neutral Foods, Conagra Brands, and Oatly.

Lessons for Other Brands

Class is in session. Unilever has set some high standards on implementing AI for some quality earth loving, but how can other brands start to do the same?

  1. Consider how the sustainability goals align with the business strategy
  2. Figure out clear sustainability reporting and tell the truth about how great or terrible it is
  3. Create pilot projects to test AI applications before launching across the business ecosystem
  4. Monitor progress
  5. Optimize, optimize, and optimize some more.

Now of course, this isn’t as easy as putting fingers to keyboard. There are some deviates that could potentially derail your efforts, such as the:

  • Availability and quality of data
  • Cost of putting it all in place
  • Technical capabilities needed
  • Integration with existing infrastructure
  • Ethical or regulatory concerns

But it’s probably better to have a healthy planet than an easy ride to get there, so buckle in!

Final Thoughts

Whatever size your brand may be, from the challenger brands to the CPG giants, there are ways to utilize AI to make a positive impact on the world.

Monitoring your footprint, leaning on predictive analytics, figuring out sustainable choices – these are all a part of how AI can help your brand strive for eco-excellence.

Because at the end of the day, you don’t want to have a negative impact unless carbon is involved.