Uncovering the Hidden Water and Energy Costs of AI

TL;DR Summary
AI systems consume significant water primarily for cooling data centers and generating electricity, with usage varying based on location, technology, and efficiency measures. While current water use by AI is small compared to everyday activities like lawn watering, understanding and optimizing its water footprint is crucial for sustainable growth and informed decision-making.
- AI has a hidden water cost − here’s how to calculate yours The Conversation
- Google’s still not giving us the full picture on AI energy use MIT Technology Review
- Why Google Wants You to Know the Environmental Cost of AI Queries - Tech News Briefing - WSJ Podcasts The Wall Street Journal
- Spin, Spiff, and Surface of AI and Sustainability Express Computer
- Tech Huddle - AI and Sustainability: Code, Compute, Conserve orfonline.org
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