Numerous are the innovative solutions provided by AI and IoT technologies that are enhancing the energy and resources consumption and efficiency, while at the same time enabling sustainable decisions across various sectors. For instance, the smart grids incorporating AI and IoT technologies can provide smart electricity distribution and thus contribute to optimizing the energy consumption. On the same level, homes that are equipped with AI-powered energy management systems are showing reduced carbon emissions and better energy savings. Additionally, IoT-enabled sensors and data analytics can optimize traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance public transportation efficiency contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality. The application of AI and IoT technologies extends beyond energy and transportation sectors. Agriculture sector is a solid example where AI-powered IoT devices can monitor soil conditions, crop health, and weather patterns to optimize irrigation, reduce water waste, and maximize crop yields.

Although AI and IoT technologies offers numerous opportunities for a sustainable future, it is essential to address potential challenges such as privacy and security concerns surrounding the massive amount of data collected by IoT devices and the ethical considerations that should be considered when developing AI algorithms.

In this spotlight in 2023 IEEE GCAIoT, we present notable highlights and discussions from the conference to answer some important questions, such as how can we accelerate the curation of more sustainable solutions through the integration of AI and IoT technologies in order to respond to the environmental issues, how can we overcome the limitations hindering AIoT technologies in supporting environmental solutions, and how we can build a sustainable and solid foundation for smart city infrastructure, all from the governmental, industrial, and academic perspectives.