Can AI change how we think about the climate? | Florian Michahelles | TEDxTUWien

Why do we struggle to think beyond tomorrow? In this talk, Florian Michahelles explores the science behind our short-term instincts — and how technology can help us overcome them. From AI-generated “future self” messages to immersive virtual experiences that make climate impact personal, Florian shows how we can rewire our minds using AI and VR to imagine — and act for — a sustainable future. Drawing on research with AI-driven future-thinking tools, he reveals how visualizing personal futures can motivate real behavioral change. This talk invites us to see long-term thinking not as an abstract ideal, but as a skill we can support by technology. “Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” — Warren Buffett Watch, reflect, and ask yourself: What choice will your future self thank you for? Video produced by Apehouse (www.apehouse.at). Florian Michahelles is a full professor for ubiquitous computing at TU Wien. He investigates how we can apply technology to support humans in their tasks and activities while keeping the human user in control. How can we wrap computing capabilities into proactive services, how can we leverage AI to free users from routine and mundane tasks, and let them focus on what we humans are best at: creativity, problem solving, critical thinking, and social collaboration. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx