Artificial intelligence is transforming the way organizations and communities approach sustainability, delivering powerful tools that optimize efficiency, support conservation, and future-proof resources for generations to come. Nowhere is this integration more dynamic than at the Kogod School of Business at American University, where AI and sustainability initiatives are driving academic innovation and preparing students to become visionary leaders.

Streamlining Supply Chains

AI is revolutionizing the efficiency of supply chains, which are responsible for up to 96 percent of some organizations’ climate emissions according to a Kogod report on leveraging AI for sustainable procurement. Predictive analytics and real-time data processing enable businesses to forecast demand, reduce excess inventory, and shorten shipping routes, cutting fuel consumption and operational costs. With risk modeling, companies can identify weaknesses and reinforce supply chains against unexpected disruptions. Kogod students engage with these concepts through coursework and research that prepares them to design sustainable, data-driven logistics for major corporations and nonprofits alike.

Environmental Monitoring and Conservation

AI’s ability to process massive datasets makes it a critical tool for conservation efforts. From tracking wildlife migration via video analysis to mapping habitat loss with satellite imagery, organizations use AI to quickly identify risk areas and prioritize restoration projects. Drones and predictive modeling help detect poachers and anticipate the impacts of climate change. Kogod leverages its Washington, D.C. location and cross-disciplinary faculty network to offer students hands-on experience in monitoring urban ecosystems and crafting AI-driven solutions to real environmental problems.

Sustainable Water Management

As climate change and population growth strain global water supplies, AI is helping utilities and businesses minimize waste, detect leaks, and guide responsible water use. AI can rapidly analyze consumption data to forecast usage peaks and respond to infrastructure issues before they worsen. One company, Xylem, was ahead of the curve in utilizing AI to solve these problems. At a fireside chat at the Kogod School of Business in 2024, CEO Matthew Pine explained how the company was already looking to AI as a solution. At that point, Pine described how AI reduces the time it takes to analyze data regarding leaks in water systems. Where the analysis process used to take weeks, AI analysis tools have reduced that time to days, enabling Xylem to both deliver datasets to its clients sooner and allow its employees to focus on less repetitive tasks.

At Kogod, faculty lead projects and case studies that show students how machine learning and real-time analytics are used by companies spanning industries to optimize resources, boost resilience, and reduce energy costs.

Kogod’s Distinctive Approach

Kogod School of Business goes beyond teaching about AI—it sets the national pace for responsible application of AI in business through the Institute for Applied Artificial Intelligence (IAAI). The IAAI brings together experts in technology, law, policy, and sustainability to ensure students understand both the opportunities and ethical challenges of these powerful tools. Over 40 AI-integrated courses—including core business functions, analytics, and sustainability—are offered, plus badges, certificates, and access to state-of-the-art AI platforms like Perplexity Enterprise Pro for every student, staff, and faculty member. Kogod’s faculty, industry leaders, and researchers mentor students, fueling interdisciplinary research and preparing graduates for evolving market demands.

Preparing Real-World Changemakers

Kogod’s commitment to integrating AI and sustainability means graduates are not only job-ready; they are equipped to lead transformational change in a rapidly evolving world. Students participate in high-impact research, engage with industry partners, and gain practical experience tackling genuine sustainability challenges.