The rise of AI

World Standards Day on October 14, 2024, will emphasize the role of international standards in guiding the ethical and sustainable development of AI, particularly in support of SDG 9, which focuses on industry, innovation, and infrastructure. With major tech companies investing heavily in AI, the industrial sector is rapidly adopting these technologies, as evidenced by Atlas Copco's use of AI for quality control in manufacturing. However, the potential disruption caused by generative AI technologies is being overlooked in the political discourse, with studies indicating that 30% of the workforce may see significant changes to their job tasks. Additionally, hiring practices favoring younger candidates for AI roles overlook the valuable experience of older workers, who express interest in learning AI tools. As the AI industry grows, a significant yet often exploited workforce of data labelers underpins its development, highlighting ethical concerns that need addressing. In light of these developments, stakeholders are urged to ensure that AI deployment is responsible and equitable, benefiting society as a whole.