Croptik NA

G20 and Digital Divide and ICT SMMEs
The G20 recognizes that bridging the digital divide is a critical challenge for achieving inclusive and sustainable global growth. For Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) (like CROPTIK in South Africa championed by a resilient black lady), which are the backbone of many economies, digital exclusion as evident in rural areas of Africa and previous homeland areas of South Africa like Transkei, is a major obstacle to competitiveness and innovation. The G20 and related forums, like the B20, have implemented policies focused on digital infrastructure, skills development, and creating supportive innovation ecosystems to help SMEs, particularly in developing nations, overcome these barriers. Amelia Jafta - [email protected]

AI impact on Climate Change
How can the world rein in the environmental fallout from AI?

In the new issue note, UNEP recommends five main things. Firstly, countries can establish standardized procedures for measuring the environmental impact of AI; right now, there’s a dearth of reliable information on the subject. Secondly, with support from UNEP, governments can develop regulations that require companies to disclose the direct environmental consequences of AI-based products and services. Thirdly, tech companies can make AI algorithms more efficient, reducing their demand for energy, while recycling water and reusing components where feasible. Fourthly, countries can encourage companies to green their data centres, including by using renewable energy and offsetting their carbon emissions. Finally, countries can weave their AI-related policies into their broader environmental regulations.