Using AI with a Lower Environmental Impact
Using nebulaONE? See the nebulaONE guidance on making sustainable choices
Use AI only when it adds clear value
Not every task needs AI. Before using it, ask:
- Can I do this with a standard search engine, library database, calculator, spreadsheet, template, or existing document?
- Would a non-AI digital tool do the job just as well?
- Am I using AI for a genuinely difficult task, or simply for convenience?
If the answer is no, avoid using AI.
Keep prompts focused and efficient
Each unnecessary prompt creates extra computing demand, so try to get what you need in fewer, clearer interactions.
Draft your request before sending it, include the context the tool needs, and avoid repeated prompt-and-reprompt cycles where a more specific first prompt would do.
Read more about how to do Effective promptingLink opens in a new window- by University College London
Avoid high-impact uses where lower-impact alternatives exist
- Use smaller or faster models for routine tasks when you have a choice.
- Search for existing images, diagrams, icons or licensed media before generating new ones
- Save advanced reasoning modes for tasks that really need them.
- Avoid making multiple decorative AI images for presentations or social posts;
- Only use image or video tools when text won't do.
Other risks to be aware of:
Environmental impact is one of several considerations when using AI. Warwick also provides guidance on:
- Accountability and transparency — declaring where AI has been used to produce work. See AI & Academic Integrity
- Data privacy — what information is safe to share with AI tools. See the AI Information Compliance Policy
- Reliability — always check AI-generated content for accuracy before relying on it
This guidance supports Warwick's wider commitment to responsible and sustainable AI use, overseen by the Responsible AI and Digital Sustainability Action Group (RADSAG).
Searching without AI
Most major search engines now incorporate AI-generated overviews and summaries by default. These consume more energy than traditional search results, so where a straightforward list of links would serve just as well, it is worth knowing how to avoid them.
• Quick fix: add '– AI' to your search query Adding -AI to any search query removes AI-generated overviews and reverts to a more traditional set of results. It works across Google, Bing and DuckDuckGo.
• Browser extensions “Hide Google AI Overviews” or “Bye Bye, Google AI” can automatically suppress AI result boxes.
• Switch off AI features built into your software, such as email or document assistants, if you don't use them.
(Source: AI and environmental sustainability in post-16 educationLink opens in a new window)