The digital transformation is increasingly changing the way environmental information is generated, processed and used. Artificial intelligence (AI), in particular, is influencing access to environmental data and its analysis. For accredited environmental organisations that use the German Environmental Information Act – Umweltinformationsgesetz (UIG) – to monitor government action, uncover environmental problems or participate in environmental proceedings, this raises new legal and practical questions.
AI systems offer new opportunities to efficiently analyse large and complex environmental datasets and make environmental information more accessible. At the same time, new challenges arise for transparency and participation rights. As algorithmic systems increasingly influence information and decision-making processes, the question arises as to what information must be made available to environmental organisations in future so that they can effectively exercise their rights. This includes, amongst other things, information on data sources, evaluation criteria and the functioning of AI-supported systems.
The project examines these developments from the perspective of civil society. It focuses on how environmental information law is changing in the context of AI-supported processes and what implications this has for access to environmental information. Both the potential benefits and the risks are taken into account. In addition to issues of transparency and traceability, the project also addresses potential biases in AI systems and how to deal with erroneous or misleading outputs from automated systems.
At the start of the project, the UfU will conduct a needs assessment to determine the current level of knowledge and support requirements of environmental organisations regarding AI and the Environmental Information Act (UIG). Building on this, practical training and information materials will be developed, including a guide on the responsible use of AI in the context of environmental information law. In addition, a workshop will bring together environmental organisations, legal experts and data scientists to exchange experiences and develop recommendations for action.
The aim of the project is to support environmental organisations in the use and interpretation of AI-supported processes and to provide impulses for the further development of transparency and participation rights in the digital age.
