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2025 is right around the corner. Where has the time gone?!
As this year comes to an end, we’re taking a quick look back so we can look even further into the future. Or at least we’re trying to!
Technology is developing at an increasingly fast pace, it's hard to know exactly what is coming next. Yet, one development in particular stands out from the others…
Artificial Intelligence!
We can’t ignore one of the biggest technology advancements we’ve seen in decades.
Back in January 2024, we couldn't have imagined the various uses of AI that we are now so used to. Let alone having Artificial Intelligence be so accessible across different platforms and now devices!
And we are still learning and developing every day.
That’s why we’re sharing the emerging trends in AI for good that are predicted to make a big impact in the ‘for good’ sector in 2025.
We’re seeing the start of amazing developments across:
Oceanic Ecosystem Monitoring
Microfinance for Poverty Alleviation
Smart Waste Management
Mental Health Support
Forest Health and Reforestation
Energy Efficiency in Urban Infrastructure
And things are only going to get better in the next year.
Are you ready to find out what trends will be relevant to you and your organisation? Then let’s get started!
Emerging Trends
AI continues to be a hot-button topic for the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Organisations are gaining confidence, but many are still at the "cautious optimism" stage.
However, one thing is for sure, AI is already here and packing a major punch for some much-needed positive impact.
This is predicted to increase even more in 2025, with AI integration expected to grow.
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67% say they are likely to keep expanding AI in the next year. This is up from 50% in April 2024.
There’s optimism that AI can deliver real value, and more organisations are ready to go further.
The following areas are where we’re seeing the most impact…
1. Oceanic Ecosystem Monitoring: Saving marine life, one algorithm at a time
AI is diving deep — literally!
The Nature Conservancy is using AI to analyse underwater drone footage and sonar data, keeping a close watch on coral reef health and marine biodiversity.
Why this AI application is here to stay:
By flagging climate-related damage before it’s visible to the human eye, AI gives conservationists the head start they need to protect our oceans. It's like having a superhero with x-ray vision guarding our seas.
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2. Microfinance for Poverty Alleviation: Kiva’s AI-powered lending
Kiva, the global Microfinance leader, uses AI to assess creditworthiness in underserved communities. By analysing alternative data like mobile payment histories, AI opens up access to loans for individuals without traditional credit records.
Why this AI application is here to stay:
AI is breaking down barriers to financial inclusion, offering opportunities to those previously left out of the system. By empowering individuals with funding to start businesses or improve their lives, Kiva and AI are proving that tech can tackle poverty head-on.
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3. Smart Waste Management: Optimising the rubbish revolution
In urban settings, AI is revolutionising waste management.
We’ve all witnessed the current issues with waste management. On a local and global scale. As a society, we need all the help we can get!
The City of Amsterdam is harnessing AI to revolutionise how waste is managed, from optimising collection schedules to improving recycling rates by spotting contamination in waste streams.
Why this AI application is here to stay:
Imagine a world where no recycling bin gets missed, rubbish trucks drive fewer miles, and carbon emissions take a nosedive. This is AI donning its eco-warrior cape for urban sustainability.
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4. Mental Health: Providing personalised support for those who need it
Woebot Health delivers real-time, anonymised mental health support through an AI-powered chatbot. It provides personalised coping strategies and predictive tools to prevent crises before they escalate.
Why this AI application is here to stay:
Sometimes, all you need is someone—or something—to talk to. AI is stepping up as the superhero sidekick for mental health, offering accessible, stigma-free support when it’s needed most.
5. Forest Health and Reforestation: Listening to forests with AI
AI is helping monitor the health of forests on a global scale by using satellite data and drones to track deforestation in real time, even in remote areas.
It’s also aiding reforestation efforts, determining the best areas for tree planting and analysing soil conditions to boost reforestation success rates.
In Ecuador’s Chocó forests, researchers are using acoustic monitoring powered by AI to track biodiversity recovery. By analysing sound recordings from the forest, AI identifies species activity and assesses the effectiveness of reforestation efforts.
Why this AI application is here to stay:
This innovative approach provides cost-effective, real-time insights into ecosystem recovery. AI enables conservationists to make informed decisions, ensuring reforestation projects are sustainable and create resilient forests. It’s like having a guardian constantly listening for the forest’s wellbeing.
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6. Energy Efficiency in Urban Infrastructure: Smarter cities for a greener tomorrow
AI is optimising energy usage in smart cities by analysing data from buildings, streetlights, and transportation systems to reduce energy waste.
It would take a huge team to be able to monitor all these details themselves!
Singapore is leading the charge with these AI systems, slashing waste and boosting efficiency.
Why this AI application is here to stay:
Imagine a city that never sleeps but never wastes. AI is making urban living smarter, greener, and more sustainable—helping us hit those climate goals faster.
Why we care
At 3 Sided Cube, we’re not just watching on the sidelines. We’re a custom software development agency who are building, innovating, and leveraging AI to change millions of lives for the better.
We’re completely in our ‘AI era’.
So much so that we produced our own report - Harnessing AI for good: adoption trends in the charity sector!
After surveying various decision-makers across the ‘for good sector and hearing their insights, we were able to create the ultimate guide to AI adoption within the charity sector.
Packed full of:
Exclusive insights into AI adoption trends among purpose-led organisations.
A realistic view of AI’s potential as a force for good in tackling global challenges.
Practical takeaways to help your organisation navigate AI adoption.
Answer the big question: Is AI ready to step into the hero role the world needs?
It was an eye opener!
The journey continues, and with each step, we’re cautiously optimistic about what AI can do for the planet and its people.
The Future of AI
We can’t wait to see how exactly these AI adoption trends develop in the new year!
Our latest pulse check report reveals that, while the road to widespread adoption is still a bit bumpy, the innovations AI is bringing to the table are impossible to ignore.
Download your copy of the report now and get access to the ultimate guide to AI adoption within the charity sector.
If you want to chat about the findings, feel free to shout us a holla to get in touch with us, we would love to hear from you 💚
Published on 10 December 2024, last updated on 10 December 2024
