Researchdata centerscarbon emissionswater useenergy consumption
AI Produces Massive Carbon And Water Footprint
8.0
Alex de Vries-Gao today published a paper in Patterns estimating AI’s 2025 environmental footprint, finding global power demand could reach about 23 GW and emissions range from 32.6 to 79.7 million tons CO2 annually, roughly comparable to New York City. He also estimates AI’s water use at 312.5–764.6 billion liters this year, and warns limited corporate transparency likely makes these conservative figures.
Key Points
- 1Estimates show AI emits 32.6–79.7 million tons CO2 annually, about NYC-scale pollution.
- 2Highlights limited transparency from tech firms, forcing reliance on analyst estimates and public disclosures.
- 3Alerts practitioners to account for large energy and cooling water costs when designing AI infrastructure.
Scoring Rationale
Peer-reviewed, industry-wide estimates highlight significant environmental impact, though figures rely on incomplete company disclosures and are conservative.
Sources
Public references used for this report.
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