Technology and the climate crisis – what can we do in Barcelona?

Is technology going to save us or destroy us? Too often, current debates seem to offer only two choices: either AI is the final nail in the coffin, to be avoided at all costs; or tech will evolve to cure all diseases and solve the climate crisis. In this discussion, four speakers with diverse backgrounds – a mobile app product manager and community organiser, a climate communications specialist turned software developer, a multi-media art educator, and a chemist and circular economist – walk into a bar (or a Climate Week Event) and argue that it's not that simple. The environmental impacts of digital technology are wide-ranging: from the direct energy it uses and the emissions it enables, to the ways of thinking and working it encourages, and beyond. Understanding these impacts starts with looking at the challenges and trade-offs beyond the headlines. Digital technology, especially AI, amplifies both risks and opportunities. At the same time, building our own tools and software has never been easier. Barcelona, with its large tech sector and thriving civic movements for climate action, care, protest and community, is the perfect place to ask: what can we do as individuals, communities, workers and citizens to steer technological development towards more of the good and less of the bad?--- By registering for this event, you agree to share your registration information with the organizers of BCN Climate Week.