AI and environmental impact

AI and environmental impact: contradictions in algorithmic textualities produced by ChatGPT and Gemini

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1590/

Keywords:

Artificial Intelligence, environmental impact, technosolutionism, thematic analysis, Communication

Abstract

The study analyzes the discursive contradictions in the responses of the ChatGPT and Gemini language models on the environmental impact of artificial intelligence (AI). Based on a thematic analysis, responses generated in “interviews” with semi-structured prompts about the relationship between AI and the global climate crisis were examined. Three themes were identified: corporatism, belief in the potential of technology, and shared responsibility. It is concluded that algorithmic textualities act to maintain socio-technical imaginaries that shift environmental responsibilities, contributing to the naturalization of the ecological impacts of AI. Finally, the urgency of the debate on eco-media literacy in the field of Communication is emphasized.

Author Biography

  • Simone Evangelista Cunha, Fluminense Federal University, Rio de Janeiro State University
    Pós-doutoranda do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Comunicação da Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF).

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Published

2026-02-27

Issue

Vol. 49 (2026): REVISTA INTERCOM

Section

Articles

License

Copyright (c) 2026 Simone E. Cunha, R. G. Furtado

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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How to Cite

AI and environmental impact: AI and environmental impact: contradictions in algorithmic textualities produced by ChatGPT and Gemini. Intercom - Brazilian Journal of Communication Sciences, São Paulo, v. 49, p. e2026105, 2026. DOI: 10.1590/. Disponível em: https://www.revistas.intercom.org.br/index.php/revistaintercom/article/view/5139. Acesso em: 26 jul. 2026.