The University shall devote its work to research into the pressing global problems of human survival, development and welfare that are the concern of the United Nations and its agencies.
People — topics on improving lives of people everywhere
Planet — topics on preserving and improving our environment and natural resources
Prosperity — topics on building a sustainable and fulfilling future
Peace and partnerships — topics on fostering peaceful, just, and inclusive societies
Collection
The Environmental Cost of Artificial Intelligence: Carbon, Water, and Land Footprints
AI’s rapid growth drives huge energy, water, and land use, raising environmental and equity challenges across its global infrastructure.
Article
When Everyone Can See Everything, Who Actually Understands Anything?
AI has dramatically expanded our ability to observe organizational behavior, yet it has not equally expanded our ability to understand it.
Degree Defense
Public PhD Defense of Gaia Romeo, UNU-CRIS PhD Fellow
The PhD defense by Gaia Romeo takes place in Brussels on 10 June 2026.
News
Rising Emissions, Depleting Water and Vanishing Land—UN Scientists: AI Is Threatening Natural Resources for Billions
By 2030, AI's water use will match the needs of 1.3 billion people while its power use triples that of 650 million, UN University investigation warns
Working Paper
Person
Person
Person
Training
AI Research for Better Policy
The AI Research for Better Policy is a unique 1-week intensive training that builds on a collaboration between UNU-MACAU, UNU-MERIT and UNU-EHS.