Digital Environmentalism: A Legal and Moral Perspective on Climate Governance in the Age of Data and AI

Digital environmentalism, defined as the integration of big data and artificial intelligence (AI) into environmental policy, offers substantial potential to enhance emission monitoring, resource management, and climate change mitigation. These technologies enable real-time analytics, predictive modeling, and automated decision-making that can significantly improve the effectiveness of environmental governance. However, the deployment of digital systems also raises pressing legal and moral challenges. Concerns over data privacy, algorithmic accountability, distributive justice, and public participation demand critical attention. This article employs a systematic literature review and case-based analysis to explore the dual promise and peril of digital climate governance. Drawing on insights from Papageorgiou and Machen, the study emphasizes the importance of aligning algorithmic decision-making with democratic and ethical values. The findings advocate for the development of a normative legal-moral framework to guide digital environmental governance. Key recommendations include enforcing algorithmic transparency, conducting independent audits, ensuring procedural fairness, and embedding community participation in the design and evaluation of digital systems. These principles are essential for fostering trust, equity, and legitimacy in climate-related digital interventions.