VIRTUAL London.

Abstract

As the impacts of climate change become increasingly apparent, the urgency to implement effective adaptation strategies grows. Among these strategies, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technologies holds significant promise for contributing to making cities more resilient to the effects of climate change and thus enhancing climate adaptation efforts. However, the successful deployment of AI in this context hinges upon public acceptance and trust. This paper presents the results of a survey study conducted to assess the public perception and acceptance of AI for climate adaptation purposes in Germany. The survey explores attitudes towards AI technologies, perceptions of AI efficacy in addressing climate challenges and the role of government and regulatory bodies in overseeing AI applications for environmental purposes. Preliminary findings indicate an optimistic attitude towards AI for climate adaptation with a broad spectrum of opinions. While some respondents express optimism about the potential of AI to bolster resilience against climate impacts, concerns surrounding transparency and a lack of trust in politics as regulating entities emerge as barriers to widespread acceptance. Insights gained from this survey can offer valuable guidance for policymakers, environmental practitioners and AI developers seeking to navigate the complex terrain of public opinion in approaches leveraging AI for climate adaptation. This study accentuates the need for transparent, participatory decision-making processes that prioritize accountability and societal values in the development and deployment of AI-driven solutions for climate resilience. By addressing public concerns and fostering meaningful dialogue, stakeholders can forge pathways towards a more sustainable, climate-resilient future empowered by AI innovation.