In a few days, the world’s attention will be on New Delhi. From 16 to 20 February 2026, India is hosting the AI Impact Summit, the biggest event of its kind ever held in the Global South. The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, will also attend.
This is not just a normal tech conference. Leaders from governments, companies, universities, and civil society are meeting in a developing country to discuss one important question: How can artificial intelligence help create a fairer, greener, and more peaceful world?
The summit focuses on three main ideas — People, Planet, and Progress. The “Planet” theme is especially important for sustainability. It looks at how AI can protect the environment, fight climate change, and support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that countries have promised to achieve.
António Guterres has explained why this meeting matters. He says the world needs shared rules and clear understanding so AI can be used safely and fairly. In simple terms, we need guidelines that prevent harm and make sure everyone benefits — especially developing countries.
More than 30 UN-led events will show real examples of how AI can:
- Help farmers grow more food using less water and fewer chemicals
- Give early warnings about floods, droughts, and other disasters
- Improve healthcare in remote areas
- Support women in technology
- Protect children online
Senior UN leaders, including representatives from UNICEF, UNESCO, and Food and Agriculture Organization, will join Indian officials, business leaders, scientists, and voices from across the Global South.
Why is this important for sustainability?
AI systems use a lot of electricity and water. Large data centres can increase carbon emissions and put pressure on power supplies. But AI can also track deforestation, predict extreme weather, and help design cleaner cities. The goal of the summit is to make sure AI becomes part of the solution — not the problem.
By hosting this event, India is showing that the Global South wants an active role in shaping the rules for AI. Countries most affected by climate change and inequality should help decide how this powerful technology is used.
The timing is important. The UN has recently created a new Independent International Scientific Panel on AI, made up of 40 global experts. Their research on AI’s risks and benefits will support discussions at the summit.
For everyday people, this is positive news. It shows that world leaders are starting to treat AI as a tool that must serve both people and the planet, not just wealthy nations. After the summit ends, the real challenge will be turning ideas into action that protects the environment, creates fair opportunities, and leaves no one behind.
If you care about a sustainable future, watch what happens in New Delhi this week. The decisions made there could shape how AI affects our world for many years.
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