Jisc
Training

AI and environmental sustainability

Consider the environmental impacts of AI technologies across their lifecycle and explore practical steps for individuals and institutions to support more sustainable choices around AI.

OnlineOne sessionOne hourIntermediate levelInclusive to members. Non-members: £52 + VAT
  • 02 November 2026

    Online
    14:00 – 15:00

Take a critical look at the environmental impacts of AI development and use. We’ll examine the available evidence and question how impacts are measured, understood and communicated. We’ll consider how these impacts vary between AI technologies, where responsibility may lie, and what practical steps individuals and institutions can take.

This is the fifth session in module one. The curriculum is structured into three modules designed for teaching and learning staff:

Module one: understanding AI in tertiary education for teaching and learning
Module two: essential AI skills for teaching and learning
Module three: ethical and responsible use of AI for teaching and learning

For further information, read our AI Literacy Curriculum for Teaching and Learning Staff blog.

Who should attend

The session is aimed at staff in the education sector who are interested in expanding their AI knowledge and want to explore wider applications and ethical considerations around AI use in education.

The session is suitable for a wide audience from these sectors:

  • Further education
  • Higher education
  • Independent education
  • Multi-academy trusts

What we cover

  • Looking at the various sources of data available relating to AI’s environmental impact
  • Building a holistic view of impacts across the AI lifecycle including the role of data centres, water and land use, e-waste, and other impacts both direct and indirect
  • Examining differences in environmental cost of different AI technologies
  • Seeing where AI may realistically support sustainability
  • Considering where responsibility for the environmental impacts of AI may lie
  • Practical advice for the education sector, for both individuals and institutions

What to expect

  • An overview of the environmental impacts of AI to support a critical approach to AI in education
  • Discussion around challenging areas of the AI and environment conversation
  • The opportunity to share your perspective and hear from other attendees
  • Practical suggestions and resources to take back to your institution

Pricing and eligibility

  • Jisc members: inclusive to membership
  • Non member, not-for-profit: £52 + VAT

This webinar is free to anyone from a Jisc member organisation (UK further education colleges, specialist colleges or higher education institutions). You will therefore need to register with your institution's email address.

Non member, not-for-profit organisations, for example multi academy trusts, schools and Independent HE, must register and pay to attend this session.

For more information email training@jisc.ac.uk.

Find out more

For more information view our artificial intelligence YouTube playlist or visit our artificial intelligence blog.