Using an Artificial intelligence chatbot to critically review the scientific literature on the use of Artificial intelligence in Environmental impact assessment

Abstract

There is considerable uncertainty about the role that Artificial Intelligence (AI) might play inEnvironmental Impact Assessment (EIA), including into research. AI large language model(LLM) chatbots have the potential to increase the efficiency of EIA research, but their outputscan create concerns. This paper investigates the potential time savings achievable using LLMchatbots to undertake a critical review of literature focussing on the use of AI in EIA. Usinga combination of ChatGPT and Elicit, literature was reviewed to identify 12 key issues asso-ciated with the use of AI in EIA and this paper was prepared in three and a half days from initialconception. A protocol is developed to assist researchers in fact checking evidence deliveredthrough Elicit (or other machine learning tools) which serves as a novel outcome of thisresearch. Using comments from three peer reviewers allowed some more objective reflectionon the credibility of the LLM chatbot-derived output, on the appropriateness of the timesavings, and on the future research needed on the application of LLM chatbots in this context