Speaking for Sustainability: AI-Driven Language Technologies in Achieving the SDGs

Abstract

This study explores how AI driven language technologies can promote the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Using a multi-method approach a systematic literature review, interviews with experts and case study analysis. It showed how natural language processing (NLP), machine translation and conversational AI are transforming the ways we communicate, access and include in sustainable development contexts. The research also highlights that these technologies greatly expand multilingual access to education, healthcare and civic participation, most especially for marginalized and linguistically diverse population groups. But there are still problems algorithmic bias, environmental cost and languages of low resources all excluded. However, the study also underlines the need for ethical governance in developing AI for development because, as the study shows, it is already meeting many of its design failures, some of which could have major consequences. Finally, it concludes that the integration of AI language tools would need to be context aware and grounded in the local context to succeed. Policy recommendations for developing inclusive AI ecosystems, promoting digital literacy and embedding environmental and ethical considerations in AI innovation are offered by the research. This study underscores how to rethink about language as a key infrastructure for sustainable futures and to move toward the communicative equity of our global AI deployments.