AI is a double-edged sword for Indigenous land protection, UN experts warn

AI is a double-edged sword for Indigenous stewardship, say U.N. experts

This story is republished through the Indigenous News Alliance. At the 2026 United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, or UNPFII, in New York, experts warned of the opportunities and dangers of using artificial intelligence (AI) in conservation and climate adaptation efforts. AI can support the protection and management of Indigenous peoples’ lands and resources, such as by monitoring deforestation, fires and illegal extraction, but it…

AI is a double-edged sword for Indigenous land protection, UN experts warn

Artificial intelligence, or AI, is helping Indigenous communities detect illegal logging, track wildfires, and monitoring of traditional lands. But the data centers powering AI are driving new threats, requiring water, energy, and critical minerals often extracted from Indigenous territories.  Now, Indigenous leaders at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, or UNPFII,  are wrestling with a paradox: how to harness AI’s protecti…

AI is a double-edged sword for Indigenous stewardship, say UN experts

Grist / Carrie Johnson This story was produced by Mongabay and is published here through the Indigenous News Alliance. At the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) this week, experts warned of the opportunities and dangers of using artificial intelligence in conservation and climate adaptation efforts. AI can support the protection and management of Indigenous Peoples’ lands and resources, such as by monitoring deforestati…