When people use a new technology, expectations often arise very quickly. Some hope for great solutions, while others mainly focus on possible risks. We noticed early on that artificial intelligence does not only create excitement but also raises questions. One of these questions concerns the use of resources. For us it therefore became clear quite quickly that we did not want to stay silent about it. If we are building a tool for engagement, it feels natural to speak honestly about its consequences.
Responsibility begins with honesty
While developing Aktivismo we often asked ourselves how openly we wanted to speak about our use of artificial intelligence. I repeatedly felt that it would be wrong to treat this part simply as a small technical detail. Every digital activity consumes energy. This applies to streaming, to web searches, to sending emails and also to applications that rely on artificial intelligence. When we talk about engagement we are also talking about responsibility. For that reason we do not want to pretend that this question does not exist. Openness is part of the attitude with which we develop Aktivismo.
Technology is never neutral
We do not see technology as something that exists outside social questions. Tools influence how people work, communicate and make decisions. That is why it is always worth looking more closely. Artificial intelligence also changes processes. It can save time and help to structure ideas, yet it also consumes resources. These two sides belong together. For us it is important to consider them at the same time. If we are building a platform for political and social engagement we also have to ask ourselves what consequences our choices may have.
What energy is used for
For me personally one question has become especially important. Not only how much energy a technology uses but what that energy is used for. Many digital processes run quietly in the background without us noticing them. At the same time tools can help to save time, avoid unnecessary detours and help people move more quickly into action. In the Campaign Creator we use artificial intelligence precisely for that purpose. It helps turn an idea into a structured campaign more quickly. If this frees time that people can invest in real conversations, actions and community, then we see this as a meaningful use.
A tool for people, not in their place
It matters to us that technology does not take the place of people. The Campaign Creator is not meant to replace anyone. It is meant to support people who want to make a difference yet may have little experience or little time. In voluntary engagement many good ideas appear but never come to life because the first step seems difficult. If a tool can make that first step easier, we see value in it. At the same time responsibility always remains with the person. Every campaign, every text and every decision is ultimately carried by people.
Openness as part of how we work
Within our team we often speak about how Aktivismo should grow. Again and again we return to the same point. Trust does not arise from perfect answers but from honest conversations. If we use artificial intelligence, speaking about its limits and its resource use is part of that. This openness is not an extra feature but part of how we work. It reminds us to stay attentive and to question our decisions again and again.
A quiet look ahead
Our relationship with technology will probably continue to change in the years ahead. New possibilities will appear and new questions will follow. We want to develop Aktivismo in a way that gives space to these questions rather than pushing them aside. Speaking openly about resources is one small part of that. It does not mean that we have every answer. It simply means that we are willing to look carefully and to take responsibility seriously.
