Myth, Opportunity, or Necessity?

The event aims to raise awareness about the environmental and social impacts of digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, and to explore how technological innovation can be developed more sustainably. The session will highlight key challenges across the digital value chain, including the extraction of raw materials for chips, the growing energy and water consumption of data centres, and the global supply chains behind digital infrastructure.

After a keynote from our partners (Green Software Foundation, Sustainable UX network, GreenIOI), participants will discuss practical approaches for more sustainable technology development, such as responsible design, efficient software development, and more conscious use of AI.

The event targets developers, designers, startups, companies, sustainability professionals, students, and anyone interested in the future of digital technologies. It particularly addresses people who shape digital innovation and want to integrate environmental and social responsibility into their work. The event reflects on tensions between innovation (SDG9), responsible production and economic growth (SDG12), and climate action (SDG13). As a major innovation hub, Hamburg has an important role in shaping responsible digital transformation. The event contributes to the Hamburg Sustainability Week by creating space for dialogue between technology, sustainability, and society.