Frugal AI: from the ambition of a framework to market reality

Summary

Introduction to the article:

"While the first framework on frugal artificial intelligence (AI) was published in June 2024, the challenge now is to ensure its principles are widely adopted. But can we really talk about frugality when dealing with a technology that has been hastily embraced by the masses and continues to drive up the environmental footprint of digital services within companies? For now, no clear answer emerges."

The article explores whether AI can truly be frugal and how this concept should be framed to ensure that frugality serves meaningful purposes.

Cross-interviews with various associations advocating for better AI ethics and oversight help illustrate the different schools of thought and beliefs surrounding this issue. The article also examines the conditions under which AI could justifiably claim to be frugal.