Artificial Intelligence (AI) has redefined many mundane aspects of our daily lives, from education to entertainment. Its generative models, such as ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and Microsoft’s Copilot, lower the barriers to creation, learning, and innovation. Its rising popularity comes at a considerable environmental cost.
The usability of AI cannot be overlooked;. A recent Harvard survey found that nearly half of teens have used generative AI—sometimes for brainstorming, sometimes for homework, and often for creative projects. These are useful tools; however, running these tools requires lots of resources.
Data centers working for AI consumption use huge amounts of electricity and water to cool down the ongoing fast-paced data processing. Every single query by ChatGPT consumes 10 times more electricity than a basic Google search. Data centre power consumption will increase by 160% through 2030 as demand rises, a report finds.
This environmental cost is a heavy toll on younger generations already anxious about climate change. The majority of students report that discussing environmental issues makes them feel sad, anxious, or even guilty. This emotional burden clashes with their dependence on AI for academic and creative activities. The instant gratification brought by AI conflicts with its long-term environmental damage, and many are now wondering if its widespread usage is justified.
This would call for a transition to renewable energy sources, including data centers. While many companies claim to use renewables, data centers are mostly grid-connected to fossil fuel-based grids. The expansion of solar and wind farms could have provided greener and sustainable energy solutions.
Costs of solar and wind have fallen by more than 80% in the last ten years alone, while it is forecast that by the year 2050, nearly 50% of the world’s electricity will be generated from renewable sources.
Adoption of sustainable AI practices is important to balance innovation with environmental responsibility. This transition needs investment in infrastructure and technology to ensure that AI tools can operate efficiently without harming the planet.
As AI continues to shape the future, it is crucial to recognize its environmental costs and work toward reducing its ecological footprint. By prioritizing renewable energy and mindful resource consumption, we can harness AI’s potential while preserving the planet for future generations.
Reference- IBM report, EARTHDAY.ORG story, NPCA report, Goldman Sachs report, McKinsey report