Keynote Speaker 2: Dr Rosemary Barnes | Pardalote Consulting
Tracks
CleanAir 1
CleanAir 2
CleanAir 3
Odour 1
Odour 2
| Monday, August 31, 2026 |
| 9:45 AM - 10:30 AM |
| Ballroom |
Overview
AI and the Atmosphere: Powering Progress Without Polluting the Future
Details
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being framed as a climate problem, with concerns about rising energy use, water consumption, and the footprint of data centres. At the same time, it is rapidly reshaping how we understand, manage, and protect the environment, from forecasting bushfires and air quality to optimising increasingly complex energy systems.
This keynote explores both sides of that equation. It examines how AI is already contributing to cleaner, more efficient systems, while also addressing the growing concerns about its environmental footprint. Drawing on real-world examples and emerging industry practices, the session will consider whether AI represents a net benefit or burden for clean air goals, and what needs to change to ensure it supports, rather than undermines, the energy transition.
Speaker
Dr Rosemary Barnes
Founder
Pardalote Consulting
Keynote Speaker 2: Dr Rosemary Barnes | Pardalote Consulting
Biography
Rosemary Barnes has a PhD in mechanical engineering and has worked with renewable energy and other clean energy technologies for nearly 20 years. She is the founder and director of Pardalote Consulting, where she works with a diverse range of stakeholders to better understand clean energy technologies and harness their potential.
Rosemary is the owner of the YouTube channel Engineering with Rosie, through which she educates and excites her audience about renewable energy technologies and how the engineering development process works. She is also a regular speaker on energy transition topics, engaging with executives, customers and clients to understand and navigate the complexities of sustainable energy.
