Is the production of our AI hardware exploiting limited material resources?

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Safety & Environmental Impact Category
Design Phase
Is the production of our AI hardware exploiting limited material resources?

AI hardware production relies on rare minerals like cobalt and lithium, which are often extracted at the cost of environmental damage and community exploitation. The short lifespan of AI devices also creates electronic waste and can involve leaking toxic chemicals into ecosystems and harming human health. When assessing your hardware, consider the resource availability and the risks of relying on these materials. Does your current hardware use materials that are becoming harder to source? Could this create future supply chain issues or environmental impact?

If you answered Yes then you are at risk

If you are not sure, then you might be at risk too

Recommendations

  • Invest in sustainable alternatives to rare minerals and prioritize ethical sourcing with transparent supply chains.
  • Promote recycling programs to recover rare metals and reduce electronic waste.
  • Design AI hardware for longer lifespans and easier recyclability using eco-friendly materials to minimize environmental harm.