Royal Holloway publishes key recommendations for fair and sustainable AI

The new report recommends tackling skills gaps, addressing data bias and reducing the environmental impact of large-scale AI models.

Royal Holloway, University of London has published a major report setting out how the UK can ensure artificial intelligence (AI) serves the public good. The report, produced by Royal Holloway's Digital Organisation and Society (DOS) Research Centre, follows a high-level roundtable convened by the University at the House of Lords in April 2025, bringing together leading voices from academia, industry, and policy.

The roundtable gathered 20 Royal Holloway academics and 14 experts from organisations including Roche, NHS, Oracle, Shaw Trust, Institute of Directors, Ofcom, Surrey AI Centre, Bloomberg, Toyota, and Vertis Media, hosted by Baroness Manzila Pola Uddin. Discussions focused on how AI can be developed and governed to uphold democratic values, drive inclusive innovation, and prioritise societal well-being.

Aligned with Royal Holloway's RH2030 strategy, the report underscores the University's role in shaping national policy and fostering cross-sector collaboration on responsible AI.

The report paints a compelling picture of what it will take to ensure AI works for society, rather than against it. At its heart is a clear message: fairness, transparency and accountability must guide every stage of AI adoption. These principles, the report argues, are not optional, but are the foundation for public trust and democratic integrity in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Preparing people for an AI-driven future is another urgent priority. Alongside this, it warns of the risks posed by biased data, urging action to prevent discrimination in critical areas such as recruitment, healthcare and finance.

The final recommendation looks beyond human systems to environmental ones. With large-scale AI models consuming vast amounts of energy, the report presses for green innovation and energy-efficient practices to curb carbon costs. Together, these steps form a roadmap for responsible AI - one that balances technological ambition with social purpose and sustainability.

Professor Julie Sanders, Vice-Chancellor and Principal at Royal Holloway, said: "The pace and extent of developments in AI are astonishing. With such far-reaching implications, this report is hugely important in highlighting the opportunities in tandem with our shared responsibilities here at Royal Holloway. This report offers critical insights into enabling equitable progress and driving public benefits. I encourage all those working in this dynamic field to read it and reflect on its recommendations."

Professor Christos Tsinopoulos, Dean of the Faculty of Business and Law at Royal Holloway, said: "The insights captured in this report reflect a shared commitment to responsible innovation and collaborative progress. As a Business School, within a University of Social purpose, we remain committed to use these insights to inform our research and courses. We look forward to continued dialogue that ensures AI benefits society as a whole."

Professor Mark Lycett, Vice Dean, Research and Knowledge Exchange at Royal Holloway, said: "Within their given context, the purpose of our research centres is to advance knowledge and understanding, foster innovation and develop new methodologies and technologies to address complex societal problems. This report is a clear example of us leading in that regard in bringing policymakers, practitioners and the community together to address the social challenges of Artificial Intelligence."

Dr Nisreen Ameen, Associate Professor in Digital Marketing and Director of the DOS Research Centre, said: "This report reflects Royal Holloway's commitment to shaping the future of AI in ways that serve society. By bringing together experts from different sectors, we are helping lead the national conversation on how technology can protect democratic values and drive innovation that benefits everyone."

The full report is available now on Royal Holloway's website.