Why Was the Ethics Board Established?
AI and ML are central to DT-GEO’s Digital Twin Components (DTCs), enhancing simulations and predictions for geophysical extremes. However, these technologies can raise ethical concerns, such as biases in data or unintended societal impacts.
Following the project’s first General Review, the Ethics Board was formed to provide guidance and oversight, ensuring compliance with the EU’s 7 Key Requirements for Trustworthy AI:
- Human Agency and Oversight – AI systems remain under human control.
- Robustness and Safety – Tools are secure, reliable, and resilient.
- Privacy and Data Governance – Personal data is handled responsibly.
- Transparency – Processes and algorithms are clear and explainable.
- Diversity, Non-discrimination, and Fairness – Biases are identified and addressed.
- Societal and Environmental Well-being – Tools align with societal and environmental interests.
- Accountability – Responsibilities and outcomes are clearly defined and reviewed.
Who Are the Members?
The Ethics Board is composed of experts from key partner institutions, each bringing specialized knowledge in ethics, geophysics, and data science:
- Marisol Monterrubio (Barcelona Supercomputing Center)
- Steven J. Gibbons (Norwegian Geotechnical Institute)
- Ramon Carbonell (CSIC-GEO3BNC)
- Flavio Cannavò (National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology)
- Cedric Bhihe (Barcelona Supercomputing Center)
- Jörn Behrens (University of Hamburg)
What Does the Ethics Board Do?
The Ethics Board ensures that AI and ML are developed and applied responsibly in DT-GEO. Its activities include:
- Reviewing Ethical Implications: Evaluating AI tools to ensure they adhere to ethical principles and EU guidelines.
- Encouraging Transparency: Promoting clear documentation of AI processes, data use, and algorithm development.
- Drafting Ethical Guidelines: Establishing standards for fairness, accountability, and data privacy.
- Monitoring Societal Impacts: Assessing potential effects on communities and the environment.
How Does the Ethics Board Promote Transparency?
Transparency is a key focus for the Ethics Board. The project adheres to the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable), ensuring that data and algorithms are well-documented and available for review. These practices build trust among stakeholders and help minimize risks associated with AI.
Navigating Ethical Challenges
The Ethics Board addresses various challenges associated with AI in geophysics, such as:
- Data Bias: Ensuring data representativeness to avoid skewed outcomes.
- Model Transparency: Providing clear explanations of how models function and their limitations.
- Accountability in Automation: Ensuring human oversight in decision-making processes.
By proactively addressing these challenges, the Board helps maintain high standards for ethical AI integration.
A Commitment to Ethical Innovation
The Ethics Board is integral to DT-GEO’s efforts to responsibly develop AI-powered tools for geophysical research. By fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, the Board ensures that our innovations are not only effective but also aligned with societal and environmental priorities.
To learn more about the Ethics Board and its work, read this.
