Abstract

The initiative to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is gaining traction. Our study, analyzing data from 1993 to 2019 across 73 countries, explores the impact of AI on the 17 SDGs across social, economic, and environmental dimensions. The results show that AI has a significant impact on most SDGs, especially social goals, through technological progress. However, regarding labor markets and inequality, AI introduces risks like labor substitution (Goal 8-1), heightened gender discrimination (Goal 5), and widened income gaps (Goal 10), particularly in developing countries. Notably, the manufacturing industry experiences a more pronounced impact compared to other industries. To mitigate the negative impact of AI, effective strategies include promoting urbanization, investing in infrastructure, accumulating human capital, fostering inclusive finance, and embracing global openness. This study enhances our understanding of the AI-SDGs relationship, providing guidance for decision-makers to regulate AI applications and expedite global sustainable development.