Generative Artificial Intelligence Policies
The Michigan Climate Action Network (MiCAN) recognizes the environmental and social impacts of large language models, known colloquially as Generative AI (GAI). As part of our commitment to remain ethical, responsible, and transparent, we have developed an artificial intelligence policy to guide our organization as we work to bring about urgent, bold, and equitable solutions for a just transition to a resilient future for all Michiganders.
In general, MiCAN uses GAI to empower staff and enhance their efficacy, but humans must remain accountable for all decisions and final outputs. We view AI as an assistive tool to enhance our efficiency, but human judgment remains the final authority in our decision-making processes.
Here is a summary of MiCAN’s current policies:
- We disclose content that is generated with significant input from GAI. Anytime GAI is used for more than 30% of the content generated, MiCAN will provide a disclaimer.
- We don’t share personal information with GAI vendors. Since large language models can often use the data provided to them for purposes beyond their original intent, we will never share any sensitive, personal, or confidential information with GAI companies.
- Human decision-making remains critical. GAI will never be used to make the high-stakes choices that help us do our community-centered work, such as decisions for hiring, community outreach, grant distribution, etc.
- Humans will always ensure accuracy. MiCAN will NOT publish any information that has been produced through GAI or GAI-based search queries without fact-checking the information for accuracy and completeness.
- MiCAN values artistic, creative, and unique works. Therefore, we prioritize GAI vendors that honor and respect intellectual property in their training algorithms.
- We use real, human-made graphics and images whenever possible. GAI image generation will not be used regularly. Regular GAI use is solely for minor edits to increase or enhance media quality, and never in a way that distorts the original intent of a work.
- We strive to use the most transparent vendors. We use the GAI vendors we feel are the most open and transparent about their environmental impact, privacy protections, bias mitigation efforts, and provide detailed information about how information will be used.
If you have any questions about our GAI policy, please contact us.