On the Unsustainability of ChatGPT: Impact of Large Language Models on the Sustainable Development Goals

Artificial Intelligence can have a significant impact on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It can help identify solutions to complex challenges that we are facing at a global level, such as poverty, pandemics, and climate change. However, ensuring that AI systems are developed and used ethically and their benefits are shared equitably is crucial. Large Language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT can raise new challenges and threats regarding achieving the SDGs. The United Nations University Institute in Macau is conducting research activities to understand these impacts better. This research can help to design evidence-based policies to mitigate the risks. Benefits and risks associated with the use of LLMs, will be illustrated with concrete examples.