Hina Hirani
Hina Hirani
Specialist in Placemaking, Sustainable Development, and Community Engagement
Hina brings over 30 years of experience in architecture, urban design, and community engagement, dedicated to creating inclusive and resilient environments for diverse communities in the UK and India. As a Creative Placemaking Specialist, she empowers local communities to ensure their voices are central to planning and development processes, fostering sustainable solutions that reflect their unique needs and aspirations, while leveraging technology to enhance these processes.
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I was drawn to the conversation around AI for its potential to enhance data-driven decision-making and strengthen community connections in shaping our places. In place-based planning and placemaking, AI can provide valuable, unbiased insights that help address local needs more effectively. By objectively analysing data, AI can identify patterns that may be overlooked, enabling us to create smarter, more responsive environments that reflect the aspirations of those who live, work, and visit these areas.
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AI can help communities navigate complex information and empower decision-making. By processing technical documents and policies efficiently, AI can highlight trends that humans may struggle to interpret, enabling more informed decisions. AI also captures the nuances of community voices, ensuring inclusivity in decision-making while facilitating developments that reflect the unique needs of Scotland’s diverse communities.
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My main concern about the future of AI is that it could unintentionally worsen existing inequalities, especially if developed without input from underrepresented communities. Society is full of biases, and if AI learns from biased historical data, it could perpetuate these inequalities. Additionally, the rapid pace of AI development could lead to compromises in transparency and ethical design. It’s crucial that we remain vigilant to ensure AI systems are inclusive, transparent, and benefit all segments of society.