Amir H. Behzadan, Ph.D.
	Professor, Department of Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering Fellow, Institute of Behavioral Science, Natural Hazards Center University of Colorado Boulder (USA)
Sociotechnical dimensions of human-centered, trustworthy AI in built-natural environment systems
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into many aspects of human life. The interface between built infrastructure and natural ecosystems represents a high-stakes environment where systemic risks are magnified by unpredictable interactions. Because physical, environmental, and human variables are so deeply intertwined, any AI integration in this space must be treated as a sociotechnical challenge. Success requires a framework that accounts for how technical performance, environmental health, and social equity influence one another. In this talk, we argue that AI should be viewed not just as a set of algorithms, but as a sociotechnical system where technical performance is balanced against social equity and community impact. Drawing on the Sociotechnical Systems Theory, we examine how AI implementations require a departure from "black-box" interventions toward human-centered design as a primary methodology. We further explore the pillars of Trustworthy AI. By challenging the notion that trust is a mere technical requirement, we formulate trust as a living social contract that fluctuates in both spatial and temporal dimensions. Therefore, shifting the focus from purely technological metrics to sociotechnical accountability is essential for ensuring long-term public acceptance and sustained societal impact. The talk concludes by providing a participatory action framework for researchers and practitioners to move toward responsible AI stewardship and governance. By embedding ethical audits and participatory design principles throughout the AI lifecycle, designers, developers, and deployers can ensure technology serves as a bridge, rather than a barrier, to a future with equitable outcomes across our built and natural environments.