Bangkok: In the midst of rapid technological advancements, the darker aspects of the digital world are surfacing, posing significant challenges to infrastructure, natural resources, and human well-being. According to Thai News Agency, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Piti Srisangnam, Executive Director of the ASEAN Foundation, highlights these pressing issues, emphasizing the need for awareness and proactive measures.
One of the primary concerns is the substantial resource consumption necessitated by the cloud and AI systems. Massive data centers, integral to these technologies, require significant amounts of electricity and water resources. Over time, these centers may pose energy security challenges, and the increasing demand for green energy could lead to conflicts between business and household energy allocations. Additionally, the cooling systems for high-speed computers demand pure water, impacting regions with scarce water resources, including agricultural sectors.
While data centers can initially boost the economy by creating jobs, the operational phase sees a decline in employment opportunities, leaving only a few specialized roles. This shift also introduces "surveillance capitalism," where AI and CCTV monitor worker behavior to enhance efficiency, adding stress to workers in digital economies. The constant influx of information further strains mental health, overwhelming the brain's mechanisms and reducing empathy in virtual interactions.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Piti advocates for building "digital immunity" rather than relying solely on state prohibitions, which may inadvertently push individuals towards unregulated platforms. Key pillars for this include digital literacy, creating opportunities, protection from cyber threats, and a green transition. Digital wellness, balancing real and virtual worlds, is crucial for sustainable development.
To advance these initiatives, collaboration across multiple sectors, including the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, the Ministry of Education, and ASEAN, is essential. These efforts aim to develop responsive policies that safeguard the quality of life in the digital age.