The "Green AI Hub for SMEs" is part of the five-point programme "Artificial Intelligence for the Environment and Climate" launched by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety's (BMUKN). It aims to bring the benefits of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for resource efficiency closer to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). To this end, the project team drives forward the research, development, testing and practical implementation of resource-saving AI technologies. Together with selected SMEs, practicable AI pilot applications are developed for operational challenges, such as the optimisation of logistics or digitally integrated solutions for the maintenance of machinery or the closure of material flows in the industry.
AI Solutions for process optimisation available as Open Source Code
The AI solutions developed are made available at no cost as open source solutions at Github – and can thus be used across industries through minor adaptations. Additionally, the Green AI Hub demonstrates AI solutions through a mobile test and demonstration centre at events. This enables companies to test sustainable AI solutions and better understand their potential to increase the resource efficiency of their production. The focus lies on the transfer of AI into everyday operations.
Throughout the project, another key focus is on circular economy in relation to AI. To achieve this, the project team supports companies in implementing company-specific pilot applications to enable them to utilise AI-supported circular economy practices.
The "Zukunft – Umwelt – Gesellschaft (ZUG) gGmbH" coordinates the implementation of the Green AI Hub on behalf of the BMUKN. The German Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI), the Wuppertal Institute, the VDI Technology Centre and the VDI Centre for Resource Efficiency are the contractors of the ZUG and are responsible for setting up and operating the Green AI Hub. The Wuppertal Institute is involved in all areas of the project and has the lead in the area "Monitoring, evaluation, benefit analysis and review of the continuation of the Green AI Hub for SMEs". Within this scope, the researchers conduct resource efficiency assessments of the AI pilot projects.