Environmentalists for artificial intelligence.
Environmental groups are using artificial intelligence to analyze climate data, monitor wildfires and count endangered species, 15 major conservation, environment and development organizations told Reuters. All said they use AI in some form and expressed concern about the energy and water impacts of data centers.
The International Energy Agency estimates that by 2030, global data centers will consume approximately 945 TWh of electricity per year, equivalent to emitting more than 300 million tons of CO2. This is twice the current consumption and roughly equal to Japan's annual electricity consumption. Water consumption in data centers will increase from approximately 560 billion liters in 2023 to approximately 1.2 trillion liters per year by 2030. The United Nations University predicts that by 2030 the area of data centers will double and reach roughly twice the size of Jakarta.
Microsoft, Amazon and Google reported an increase in emissions, among other things due to the expansion of data centers. Amazon told Reuters that its AI products are among the greenest, thanks to low-carbon energy and efficient use of electricity and water. Microsoft and Google did not respond to questions.
At the 31st UN Climate Conference (COP31), Turkey will call on governments, businesses and institutions to sign a commitment to sustainable development and artificial intelligence. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres wants major artificial intelligence companies to publicly disclose the environmental impact of their systems.
Energopole in Max.
"Energy Policy" website.