Artificial intelligence as a key tool for the development of naturelike technologies

The relevance of this study is driven by the acute need to ensure Russia’s technological sovereignty and economic resilience in the context of global environmental challenges and unprecedented sanctions pressure. The response to these systemic risks is a transition to a new paradigm of economic development based on the deep integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and nature-like technologies (NLT). This combination is considered a key driver for overcoming resource dependency, enhancing competitiveness and transitioning to a circular economy model. The aim of the research is to systematize and analyze the key roles and functions of AI as a catalyst and integration platform for implementing the principles of NLT across various economic sectors. The methodological framework of the study involves a comprehensive approach, combining methods of systemic and comparative analysis, as well as economic and statistical processing of data from official sources (Rosstat, the Russian Ministry of Digital Development) and industry analytics from RAEC. As a result of the study, a structural model is proposed, demonstrating the synergistic effects of integrating AI and NLT. At the micro-level, a 15−30% reduction in corporate operating costs through the optimization of resource consumption is confirmed. At the meso-level, the potential for the formation of new secondary resource markets with a volume of up to 3−5% of the GRP is identified. At the macro-level, a 15−20% reduction in the GDP energy intensity is forecasted, which will directly enhance the country’s economic security. The significant market potential of the AI-NLT sector is assessed, with projections indicating growth from 158 billion rubles in 2024 to 450−600 billion rubles by 2030. Key barriers hindering development have been identified: a structural personnel shortage (25−30 thousand specialists annually), critical wear and tear of fixed assets (45−60%) and a chronic lack of venture financing. It is concluded that the integration of AI and NLT is forming a new technological and economic paradigm, and their accelerated development is an unconditional strategic imperative for diversifying the economy and ensuring the long-term technological sovereignty of the Russian Federation.