The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) is creating massive profits for tech companies. At the same time, it is putting the planet at serious risk. In particular, AI systems, especially large language models, depend on huge data centers. Consequently, these centers use up enormous amounts of electricity and water. Moreover, many of them rely on fossil fuels, which in turn increases carbon emissions. Not to mention, this energy use contributes directly to global warming.
Furthermore, experts caution that by 2026, data centers could consume as much electricity as entire countries such as Japan or Russia. In addition, MIT researcher Noman Bashir points out that by 2030, new AI data centers could account for at least 10% of global electricity demand. Importantly, non-renewable sources will provide most of this energy, fueling global warming. To be sure, tech billionaires, including Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos, and Elon Musk, are driving major expansions that increase energy use.
AI Energy Use and Environmental Impact
AI systems need more electricity than ever. Data centers run constantly. Cooling these centers also uses water. This creates a large environmental footprint. Fossil fuels often power them, which increases carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
The way companies are building AI infrastructure makes it hard to switch to renewable energy. Noman Bashir warns that current trends are unsustainable. By 2030, AI-related data centers could drive a significant part of global electricity demand. This adds to the urgency of limiting fossil fuel use worldwide.
The focus on AI profits has shifted priorities in the tech industry. Companies once seen as environmentally responsible now align more with billionaire and fossil fuel interests. Expanding AI technology is slowing global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
Energy-intensive AI projects may also reduce support for climate science. Scientists have long emphasized the need for quick action to lower emissions. Without it, global temperatures will rise further, amplifying natural disasters.
Extreme Weather and Rising Risks
Recent hurricanes and heatwaves highlight the risks of climate change. Hurricane Melissa struck the Caribbean with record-breaking winds, damaging homes and infrastructure. Sherlette Wheelan, a resident of Jamaica, said her house was completely destroyed. Thousands of people were left without electricity.
Higher global temperatures strengthen storms and heatwaves. As oceans warm, they absorb less carbon dioxide, leaving more greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Scientists caution that this will likely make extreme weather events occur more often.
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Heat combined with humidity can be deadly. Experts use a “wet bulb” measurement to assess risk. When conditions are too hot and humid, humans cannot cool off by sweating. Michael E. Mann notes that the planet cannot simply reset once climate systems are destabilized.
Coastal areas and cities in the U.S. Midwest and Middle East could face deadly conditions in the coming decades. The risks are no longer theoretical. People living today are already affected.
Short-Term Emissions and AI Expansion
Limiting short-term carbon emissions is critical to slowing climate change. Scientists have calculated a global carbon budget, which measures how much carbon dioxide humanity can safely emit. At current rates, this budget could be used up in just a few years, leaving little room to prevent dangerous warming.
Global energy-related emissions continue to rise despite growing use of renewables. Each year, more greenhouse gases enter the atmosphere, worsening storms, heatwaves, and rising seas. AI’s rapid expansion adds to this problem. Every new data center consumes vast amounts of electricity, mostly from fossil fuels, increasing carbon emissions.
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Experts warn that unchecked AI growth could significantly impact climate targets. Peter Hotez also highlights how billionaire influence on science and policy can slow climate action. Corporate priorities may favor short-term gains over environmental responsibility, allowing emissions from AI and other industries to rise.
Reducing AI energy use and fossil fuel dependence is crucial. Measures like energy-efficient data centers, renewable electricity, and stricter emissions standards can help. Without these actions, the short-term benefits of AI could come at a long-term cost to the planet, accelerating climate change and extreme weather risks.
