AI for Sustainable Development in ASEAN: Advancing Safe, Trustworthy and Ethical AI for Climate Action

This report explores the transformative potential of AI in addressing climate challenges across Southeast Asia, emphasising the need for targeted interventions to harness AI effectively while mitigating emerging risks. The analysis covers nine countries in the region, focusing on pressing climate-related risks and key actions to consider across seven pillars: Data, Computing, Talent & Skills, Responsible Governance, Innovation, Scaling, and GEDSI (Gender Equality, Diversity, and Social Inclusion). Some key insights include: • Addressing climate data gaps is critical for combating climate risks. • AI’s expanding environmental footprint demands urgent attention. • Building an inclusive, AI-ready workforce is essential to accelerate progress in key climate sectors. • The gender gap in AI-driven climate tech funding in Southeast Asia needs to be addressed to foster innovation and scaling. Overall, this report presents numerous key findings which collectively aim to inform the critical actions required and identify key actors responsible to advance the development and deployment of safe, trustworthy, and ethical AI for climate action across Southeast Asia.