Innovating for Tomorrow

The Convergence of Software Engineering and Green AI

Journal Article (2025)
Author(s)

Luís Cruz (TU Delft - Software Engineering)

Xavier Franch (Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya)

Silverio Martínez-Fernández (Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya)

DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.1145/3712007 Final published version
More Info
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Publication Year
2025
Language
English
Journal title
ACM Transactions on Software Engineering and Methodology
Issue number
5
Volume number
34
Article number
138
Downloads counter
142
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Abstract

The latest advancements in machine learning, specifically in foundation models, are revolutionizing the frontiers of existing software engineering (SE) processes. This is a bi-directional phenomenon, where (1) software systems are now challenged to provide AI-enabled features to their users, and (2) AI is used to automate tasks within the software development lifecycle. In an era where sustainability is a pressing societal concern, our community needs to adopt a long-term plan enabling a conscious transformation that aligns with environmental sustainability values. In this article, we reflect on the impact of adopting environmentally friendly practices to create AI-enabled software systems and make considerations on the environmental impact of using foundation models for software development.