AI’s dual promise: Enabling positive climate outcomes and powering the energy transition

BRAZIL: As delegates gather for COP30 in Brazil, KPMG International has published the findings of a major survey that reveals overwhelming support from business leaders for AI as a tool to accelerate, rather than hinder, climate progress.

More than 1,200 senior executives from major companies spanning a variety of industries across 20 countries were surveyed for KPMG’s report, AI’s dual promise: Enabling positive climate outcomes and powering the energy transition. The research was conducted to better understand how AI is currently being used to drive sustainability and where business leaders believe action is needed to accelerate and unlock its full potential. 

While AI was debated on the sidelines of COP29 this year, it’s set to be among the most discussed themes as the world’s decision makers attempt to balance the potential impact of energy consumption with the technology’s potential to transform clean energy.

Forecasts vary significantly, but some campaigners have called for a moratorium on new AI data center builds, warning they could significantly increase global emissions by 2030, slowing or even reversing current progress on climate change. The challenge for political and business leaders is understanding AI’s increasing need for energy resources while balancing this with the huge potential the technology has to rapidly speed up progress on clean energy and decarbonization.

KPMG’s survey provides some of the clearest evidence yet that senior executives now understand and are embracing AI as a potential force for good. Ninety-seven percent of respondents said they believe AI is a net positive for accelerating progress towards net zero goals.

The execution gap: why energy’s progress is uneven

Despite strong confidence in AI’s potential, KPMG’s findings highlight that progress remains uneven due to barriers in infrastructure, policy, and financing. One-third of executives (33 percent) identify grid limitations as a major risk, with permitting and construction delays threatening to meet only half of the new AI-driven energy demand by 2030. Policy is also lagging behind innovation: 75 percent of leaders say policymakers are too slow to embrace AI’s climate benefits, creating uncertainty and delaying investment. Financing is another challenge, with 37 percent of energy producers and 33 percent of energy consumers citing high costs and lack of funding as the main obstacles to expanding clean energy. 

While 96 percent of executives believe renewables can meet future AI demand, only 13 percent are willing to make clean power use non-negotiable if it slows deployment or raises costs. As a result, data center expansion is likely to continue globally even without guaranteed access to clean power. Companies that overcome these hurdles by 2027 will secure a lasting competitive advantage.

Turning AI ambition into climate action

KPMG’s survey reveals a clear commitment to both AI and the climate challenge from energy business leaders. With COP30 now underway in Belem, much of the conversation will focus on 2030 and the rapidly approaching deadline for net-zero goals. The summit is a pivotal moment for embracing and exploiting AI to help meet the challenge.

Mike Hayes, Global Head of Renewable Energy, KPMG International and Partner, Climate Change and Decarbonization Leader, KPMG in Ireland, said:

Anish De, Global Head of Energy, Natural Resources, and Chemicals at KPMG International, said, 

Anna Scally, Head of Technology, Media, and Telecommunications, KPMG EMA; Partner, KPMG in Ireland, said, 

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The Forum, meeting after a gap of seven years, underlined key areas for enhanced bilateral cooperation, including green energy, electric mobility, space technology, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, digital technology, data centers, healthcare, and electronics.

In his address, Mr. Kalyani emphasized the strategic importance of the India-Japan partnership, describing it as a resilient and vital force for global economic security and sustainable growth, particularly against the backdrop of ongoing trade uncertainties. Mr. Kalyani highlighted several medium-term focus areas to further strengthen the partnership.

He stressed the need to build greater resilience in global value chains by leveraging India and Japan’s complementary strengths, while also welcoming increased Japanese investments in India across banking, financial services, and the establishment of global capability centers. He underlined the importance of co-creating and co-developing solutions for Society 5.0, the vision of a technology-driven, human-centered society. He also called for the creation of joint standard-setting bodies to drive mutual recognition agreements across sectors, and emphasized the significance of skill mobility and human exchange, noting India’s demographic advantage in providing a young and skilled workforce to support Japan’s evolving needs.

Mr. Kalyani and Mr. Tsutsui-san, Chairman of Keidanren, collectively submitted the Joint Forum Report to the Prime Ministers. The report outlines recommendations and opportunities to take the India-Japan partnership to the next level.

The Joint Statement outlined a series of forward-looking initiatives designed to enhance strategic autonomy, strengthen cooperation, and diversify bilateral economic ties for sustainable growth. These include:

• Revising the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA),
• Amending the tax treaty, and supporting India’s potential accession to the CPTPP;
• Launching an India-Japan Private-Sector Dialogue on Economic Security;
• Advancing decarbonisation through clean energy technologies and the Joint Crediting Mechanism.  
• Strengthen cooperation across semiconductors, smart manufacturing, and AI
• Promoting SME and startup collaborations
• Expanding partnerships in third-country markets like Africa, and promoting greater talent and cultural exchange.
• Both sides also discussed bilateral cooperation in the space sector as well as potential for collaboration in film, animation, gaming, and extended reality (XR).

The occasion reaffirmed that the India-Japan economic partnership is entering a new era of innovation and shared prosperity, creating a win-win model for both nations and the global economy.

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Leading this year’s awardees was Adi Chordia, a 19-year-old environmental changemaker from Pune, celebrated for his dynamic leadership in driving youth-led climate action and eco-innovation across India. Adi received the Paryawaran Gaurav Puraskar award for his outstanding leadership in mobilizing youth for climate action and sustainability. Founder of several student-led green projects and a firm advocate of conscious innovation, Adi has consistently combined grassroots efforts with digital awareness campaigns to inspire a generation. With a lineage rooted in sustainability and enterprise, he is not only carrying forward a family legacy but redefining it through climate education and eco-conscious entrepreneurship.

Padmashri Dr. G.D. Yadav received the Paryawaran Bhushan Puraskar award & Shri Ganpatrao Patil received the Paryawaran Jeevan Gaurav Puraskar award for their contribution towards environmental sustainability. Also, eight other achievers were honoured for their environmental commitment and innovation.

The awards were presented by Shri Siddhesh Kadam, Director of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, and Mr. Ravindra Mirje, Deputy Director, Vishveshwar Sahakari Bank Ltd., Pune.

Speaking at the event, Shri Siddhesh Kadam said, “Young leaders like Adi are not just contributing to environmental conservation but are shaping the path for an entire generation to engage in meaningful, future-focused work. The time ahead belongs to passionate changemakers like Adi, who inspire action and hope.”

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The leaders of the National Board of Examination in Medical Science (NBEMS) India, the National Board of Examination in Medical Science (NBME) USA, and the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) were among the panelists who discussed and educated the aspiring medical students. The initiative was led and coordinated by Dr. Lokesh Edara, BOT-Chair Elect, Dr. Sumul N. Raval, current Secretary of AAPI, and Dr. Shubam Anand, Chairman of the Global Association of Indian Medical Students (GAIMS).

Medical education has many challenges in the transfer of knowledge and quality. India is introducing the NEXT examination, which is the licensing examination similar to USMLE in the US, while the UKMLE is starting in the UK in 2024 in place of the PLAB examination. NMC has applied for WFME Recognition status, which is mandatory to apply for the USMLE examination.

Dr. Peter Katsufrakis, President and CEO, of NBME, USA, spoke about the requirements for Medical students to transition and get accreditation to practice Medicine in the US. Dr. Humayun Chaudhry, President and CEO of the Federation of State Medical Boards, is a graduate of NYU, NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM), and Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, and was listed by Modern Healthcare as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare in 2022.

Expressing appreciation for Dr. Edara and Dr. Raval for taking the lead in facilitating interaction and dialogue between the Medical Education Boards of India and the United States, Dr. Anjana Samadder, President of AAPI said, “Since its inception over four decades ago, AAPI has been in the forefront advocating for medical school education reform and for the medical graduates from India to be treated on par with their counterparts in India. India is already leading the global pharmaceutical industry, and rebooting medical education will help India enter the league of leaders in healthcare around the world. The meeting today was a great start, and I look forward to AAPI continuing to lead such efforts in the coming years benefiting the medical fraternity.“

The AAPI’s initiative to bring together leaders in medical education regulatory boards from India, USA, and UK during GHS 2024 is a significant step towards streamlining medical education in India to meet global standards. The meeting provided a platform for aspiring medical students to learn from and interact with experts in the field, and it is hoped that the exchange of ideas and challenges will benefit the medical education system in India and help tens of thousands of medical graduates coming from India to have recognition in the US.

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Esteemed dignitaries, including the respected Ex. Vice President of India, Venkaiah Naidu, distinguished Member of the UK’s Parliament House of Lords, Meghnad Desai, stalwart leader Sharad Pawar, accomplished President of the University of Vermont, Suresh Garimella, and seasoned Business Consultant Ramcharan, will adorn the prestigious inauguration session of the 13th Bharatiya Chhatra Sansad.

The event saw the presence of esteemed education leaders from Pune, including Dr. Suresh Gosavi -Vice Chancellor of Savitribai Phule Pune University, Dr. M. D. Lawrence-Vice Chancellor of PA Inamdar University, Dr. Sanjay Chordiya-President of Suryadatta Group of Institutes, Dr. Nandkumar Nikam -President of Maharashtra Principal Federation, Dr. Sunil Adsule-Principal of St. Vincent College, and Dr. Devidas Golhar-Principal of Marathwada Mitra Mandal College, among others.

Rahul Karad, Executive President of MIT-WPU, commented, “BCS aligns with our overarching mission to foster the development of ethical, spirited, and competent public leaders in the country. These leaders will play a pivotal role in shaping our policies, revitalizing our democracy, and bridging the gap between the current state of governance and the way we aspire to be governed.“

This three-day event not only provided a one-of-a-kind networking platform for youth passionate about civic engagement but also facilitated connections with like-minded peers, experts, and leaders spanning diverse fields. Speakers for this year include Dr. Vikram Sampat ji, Adv. Abha Singh ji, Dr. Shehla Rashid ji, Shri. Imran Pratapgarhi, Swami Mukundananda ji, Smt. Khushbu Sundar ji. Attending this event ensures active involvement and participation in discussions covering both national and global issues.

The Bhartiya Chhatra Sansad (BCS) is a must-attend event for politically and socially active students, drawing participants from 25,000+ colleges and 400 universities. Indian Student Parliament (Bharatiya Chhatra Sansad) is an independent, apolitical platform that is not in any way affiliated with any national or regional political party or media house in India or overseas.

With a rich legacy of 40 years in fostering world-class academic excellence and over 1,00,000+ alumni across the globe, MIT-WPU is one of the premier institutions of higher learning in India that offers over 150 programs at undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and PhD levels. It is also known for its prolific placements and career support provided to the students. Spread over 65 acres, MIT-WPU is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities. Over 8,000 students enroll every year for different courses, across the 11+ Schools & 30+ departments of MIT-WPU.

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A resounding success, this exceptional book was presented to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at his visit earlier this week to the BAPS temple in Toronto, followed by a gala event held in honor of all the remarkable achievements of dynamic young Indo-Canadians featured in the book.

The grand event, on 30 June 2023 at the Courtyard by Marriott in Brampton, was held under the auspices of chief guest H.E. Sanjay Kumar Verma, the High Commissioner of India to Canada; guest of honor Hon’ble Apoorva Srivastava, the Consulate General of India; and distinguished guests, the illustrious Dr. Vaikuntam Iyer Lakshmanan, recently bestowed with Order of Canada; Dr. Sankar DasGupta, the Co-Founder & CEO of Electrovaya and Adjunct Professor at the University of Toronto.

Dr. Lalita Malhotra, an eminent obstetrician and philanthropist from Prince Albert; Chandra Arya, Member of Parliament – Nepean; and Colin Carrie, Member of Parliament – Oshawa also graced the occasion with their presence along with other dignitaries like business leaders Kuldeep Sharma, Chairman & CEO of Crown Group of Hotels, and Norton Kothari, Chairman – Kothari Group.

MP Arya quoted, “As a growing community in Canada, with over two-million strong Indians, I believe we play an integral role in shaping the present and future of this county. With the global technology-based economy, you young achievers are positive role models for your peers and for generations to come.”

Hon’ble Apoorva Srivastava, said that it was a privilege to be present on such a momentous occasion and added, “Today, we celebrate these 50 young individuals who have made India and Canada proud. But let us also acknowledge their families as their support has been instrumental in their success. The featured individuals in this book will continue to inspire the younger generation and make a lasting impact.”

H.E. Sanjay Kumar Verma echoed Srivastava’s sentiments. “It’s not just your individual journey that is being acknowledged but that of your entire family. Many of you have pursued professional excellence without seeking recognition, making both the Indo-Canadian community and both countries proud.”

Other dignitaries that spoke at the gala evening included Dr. Vaikuntam Iyer Lakshmanan and Dr. Lalita Malhotra. Dr Lakshmanan paid a glowing tribute to the 50 individuals who he said had accomplished much more at 50 than he had in his 83 years. Dr. Malhotra highlighted the importance of healthcare and education in India and Canada and lauded the technological advancements in both nations in this regard. She added, “However, in both healthcare and education, the human factor is essential. While intelligence and artificial intelligence have their place, I, as a physician, believe that human touch and eye contact are essential. We must decipher moments not just in black or white, but also in shades of grey.”

The man of innovation, Dr. Sankar DasGupta, said, “In science, aerodynamics signifies forward motion, and similarly, we look at these 50 achievers, who will inspire and propel others forward.”

Indeed, the 50 visionaries, featured in 50 Under 50: Young and Aspiring Indo-Canadians, are true inspirations and icons, who are redefining success and making significant contributions to Canada’s growth and its multicultural fabric. 

These narratives chronicle the remarkable odysseys of these exceptional individuals, bridging their ancestral homes in India to a new land, igniting a flame of motivation for future generations. Maneesh Media’s Chairman Chandmal Kumawat said, “We at Maneesh Media understand the profound impact of inspiration and motivation on the lives of individuals. With a firm belief in uplifting our nation and its people, especially the young generation, Maneesh Media aims to inspire through the extraordinary success stories of those, who have triumphed over immense challenges.”

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