Amazon is demonstrating how artificial intelligence can be used thoughtfully to accelerate sustainability efforts by making massive operations cleaner and more efficient simultaneously. According to a recent report from Technology Magazine, Amazon has been increasing its use of AI, helping the company move closer to its Climate Pledge goals. The AI-based solutions, developed and hosted on Amazon Web Services cloud, are showing promising results in various areas.
One notable example is the Package Decision Engine, which leverages machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing to select the most efficient packaging for deliveries. “So far, along with other packaging innovations, the Package Decision Engine has helped us avoid over two million tons of packaging material worldwide,” said Kara Hurst, Amazon’s chief sustainability officer.
Another significant breakthrough is FlowMS, a system that detects water leaks inside Amazon’s buildings. In one instance, it helped save more than 9 million gallons of water per year. Additionally, Amazon is using Advanced Refrigeration Monitoring to optimize cold storage at its grocery hubs, keeping food fresher while reducing energy waste. Base Building Advanced Monitoring also helps monitor HVAC systems to identify problems early and prevent energy waste.
Amazon has also made advancements in solar farm construction. In collaboration with AES Corporation, the company developed Maximo, a computer vision robot that accelerates solar panel installation and improves safety, cutting solar project timelines and costs by up to 50%.
These initiatives not only enhance service quality but also have the potential to lower costs for consumers in the long term. Moreover, they reduce pollution and resource waste associated with every Amazon order without requiring any changes in customer behavior.
“At Amazon, we’re pioneering AI applications to accelerate our decarbonization efforts, including creating innovative solutions that further improve our buildings’ energy and water efficiency,” Hurst said. “This is just the beginning, and I’m excited about all the ways AI can help us reach our goals.”
