COVID-19 emerged in late 2019 in Wuhan, China; the causative agent is the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The pandemic lasted from January 30, 2020, to May 5, 2023. By 2025, more than 7 million confirmed deaths had been recorded. The virus continues to circulate with occasional waves and new variants and subvariants.

Question for AI: Will a new COVID-19 pandemic be declared by the end of 2025?

AI answer: NO. Probability 5%

One quarter of the world’s population lacks safely managed access to drinking water. Climate change and the melting of glaciers (“water towers”) could threaten the drinking-water supply for about 2 billion people. In addition, pollution and other human activities contribute to shrinking supplies of potable water.

Question for AI: By 2050, will half of the world’s population be left without access to drinking water?

AI answer: NO. Probability 10%

Air pollution is one of the greatest health risks to humanity, responsible for around 9 million deaths globally each year. The most polluted regions include Sub-Saharan Africa and South and Southeast Asia. Industrial impacts and deforestation contribute to a reduction of oxygen in the atmosphere.

Question for AI: By 2050, will there be an oxygen shortage in Earth’s atmosphere?

AI answer: NO. Probability 1%