Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a major game-changer for environmental governance in India. It can do wonders with real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, resource management, judicial efficiency, and public participation. The broad scope of AI to work on difficult issues like pollution control, deforestation, and climate change adaptation has made it one of the prime movers of sustainable development. On the other hand, AI integration also raises questions about legal, ethical, and policy issues. The concerns are data privacy, accountability, Intellectual Property Rights, regulatory gaps, algorithmic bias, and the carbon footprint of AI systems, etc. This article outlines the nexus between AI technology and environmental governance, highlighting the AI scenario as a promoter of innovation and at the same time a cause of law and ethics complexity. It calls upon the need of drafting AI-specific legislation, instituting ethical design as a pillar, implementing environmental impact assessment initiatives, and building capacity through training and workshops. A well-rounded approach can make AI a tool for the good of the environment in India. This technology, if deployed responsibly, can not only make environmental regulation easier and more efficient but can also boost social equity, legal accountability, and ecological sustainability.
Mishra et al. (Sat,) studied this question.