AI, Consumption & Choice: How Recommendations systems Affect Circular Economy

Students will:

  1. understand how AI recommendation systems influence everyday choices and consumption behaviour
  2. recognise that recommendation systems are designed to optimise engagement, sales, or attention rather than sustainability
  3. explain how recommendation systems can reinforce linear consumption patterns such as constant upgrading and replacement
  4. explore how the same systems could be redesigned to support circular economy practices
  5. identify trade-offs between efficiency, profit, user engagement, and sustainability
  6. reflect on personal agency and responsibility when interacting with AI recommendations

Available language: English

 

Topics: Environmental Studies, Computer Science, Social Studies