Over 1,000 Amazon employees have signed an open letter expressing deep concerns about the company’s rapid AI development approach, claiming it threatens democracy, jobs, and the environment. This letter, organized by Amazon Employees for Climate Justice, highlights demands such as ensuring clean energy for data centers and preventing AI tools from enabling harmful practices like surveillance and deportation. The workers, which include engineers and warehouse associates, fear that Amazon’s heavy investment in AI, projected at $150 billion, compromises its climate goals, citing a 35% increase in annual emissions since 2019. Many employees report pressure to adopt AI tools to boost productivity, leading to unrealistic work expectations and layoffs. While Amazon defends its climate initiatives, workers advocate for a sustainable and ethical approach to AI development, emphasizing the need for worker input in decisions affecting job security and environmental impact. The letter reflects broader industry concerns regarding the implications of AI technology.
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