Artificial Intelligence as a Governance Tool for Sustainable Resource Management: A Thematic and Analytical Review

Abstract

This research highlights the significance of synthetic intelligence (AI) for 21st-century natural science governance, efficiency, and sustainability. The study uses a qualitative, descriptive-analytical method and is based on a systematic review of studies conducted between 2020 and 2026. Studies were organized by main themes, including AI technologies, governance frameworks, sustainability, and ethical considerations, and analyzed using a matrix-based methodology. The results indicate that artificial intelligence has become a tool of strategic governance, increasing transparency and efficiency of resource allocation as well as policy effectiveness. Nonetheless, many challenges still remain, data availability and scarcity, technology complexity, and a lack of legal and ethical frameworks. Once again, the paper highlights a gap between AI's maximum potential and its actual application — particularly in developing contexts. It concludes that AI governance cannot be effective in isolation and must be informed by greater contextualization and ethical considerations to manage resources sustainably and equitably.