Project Team Members (left to right): Jonathan Niesel, Theresa Züger, Rolf Sohrmann
Measuring what matters: AI Research Project Launched
Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds enormous potential for advancing sustainability and promoting the common good. From monitoring biodiversity and tracking marine pollution to calculating CO₂ emissions, AI can drive meaningful change. At the same time, it raises critical questions: What is its true energy and resource footprint? How sustainable are AI systems in practice? How can their social benefits be assessed objectively?
The “Impact AI” research project looks to address these questions. The aim is to develop a scientifically robust auditing method that systematically captures the contribution of AI to public interest and social transformation.
Assessing the impact of AI – a new approach
“Impact AI” takes a transdisciplinary approach – not only to analyse the impact of AI, but also to make it measurable. Over a five-year period, the project will evaluate 15 case studies, each focused on AI applications with a strong link to sustainability and the common good. By conducting three case studies per year, the project will iteratively test and refine its evaluation method in real-world contexts.
The core partners of the project are the Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society (HIIG), Greenpeace Germany and the ECOnGOOD National Association in Germany. This close collaboration combines scientific research with practical, experience-based insights – from the assessment of social and ecological impacts through to sustainable AI project design.
Project Launch in Hamburg
Following an intensive application phase that began in spring 2024, the project was officially launched in early 2025. On February 5th, the project partners met in person for the first time at the Greenpeace offices in Hamburg. The initial introductions revealed numerous synergies amongst partners. The team outlined potential topics for case and agreed upon key next steps – marking a strong and collaborative start to the project.
The ECG approach
In “Impact AI”, the Economy for the Common Good (ECG) contributes its extensive practical experience in the common good accounting of companies, organisations and municipalities. The Common Good Matrix – with its clearly defined values and stakeholder perspectives – provides a powerful framework for evaluating the societal impact of AI.
In addition to this, the project will benefit from other proven tools like the ECOnGOOD Business Canvas and established best practices. ECOnGOOD will also leverage its international network to engage experts from various countries and thematic fields. This will foster a broad, interdisciplinary exchange that promotes the development of AI for the common good.
Funding and Open Science
“Impact AI” is funded by the Volkswagen Foundation under the Change! Fellowship programme. The project maintains a firm commitment to open science: all developed auditing methods will be freely accessible to companies, policymakers and civil society actors. Through this transparent and collaborative approach, “Impact AI” will help to strengthen the sustainable use of AI, at the same time it creates a solid foundation for technologies oriented towards the common good.
Stay informed
All project partners will share regular updates: through events, participatory formats and via blog posts. Anyone interested is invited to get involved and help shape a responsible, value-driven use for AI.
For more information on this project, visit the HIIG official website.
