**
As artificial intelligence (AI) technology continues to evolve at breakneck speed, an alarming issue has emerged regarding its significant water consumption. With widespread usage of AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini, experts are increasingly scrutinising the environmental implications of this trend. The conversation is shifting towards understanding the hidden water costs associated with our digital interactions and the potential strain on global water resources.
The Water Usage Debate
Recent discussions around AI’s resource consumption have initiated a vigorous debate about its water requirements. While some figures suggest that AI models like ChatGPT consume negligible amounts of water—OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, claims that a single query uses less than 1/15 of a teaspoon—other studies present a starkly different picture. A 2023 study by the University of California posited that for every 10 to 50 responses generated by ChatGPT, approximately 500ml of water is consumed. This discrepancy in estimates raises essential questions about the true environmental impact of AI technology.
Moreover, a report from the UK Government Digital Sustainability Alliance forecasts that global water usage driven by AI could surge from 1.1 billion to a staggering 6.6 billion cubic metres by 2027. This projection is alarming, considering it would represent more than half of the UK’s total water consumption.
Understanding the Mechanics of AI Water Consumption
The central factor behind AI’s water consumption lies within the data centres that house the necessary computing power. These facilities require substantial amounts of water for cooling systems and electricity generation, as well as during the manufacturing of the hardware. Research from the Lincoln Institute of Conventional Policy reveals that a mid-sized data centre can consume as much water as a small town, while larger centres may require up to 5 million gallons daily—equivalent to the daily water needs of a city with a population of 50,000.
This consumption is not occurring in isolation. Many data centres are located near sensitive ecosystems or vital biodiversity areas, adding to the environmental strain. Alarmingly, almost 68 per cent of data centres operate within regions where local water supplies are already under significant stress, raising concerns about their long-term sustainability.
The Broader Implications for Society
Public apprehension about AI’s water usage is rooted in the fear that it exacerbates existing water scarcity issues. As data centres tap into local water resources, surrounding communities may face increased pressure on already limited supplies. The Government Digital Sustainability Alliance has noted that demand for freshwater could outstrip supply by 40 per cent by the end of the decade, further intensifying concerns about the viability of water resources in regions heavily reliant on data centres.
Experts argue that while the individual water footprint of AI usage may be marginal, the cumulative impact on local ecosystems and communities is significant. Sam Gilbert, a researcher at the University of Cambridge, emphasises that the focus should shift from individual consumption to the broader environmental impact of data centres on local water supplies. Transparency from AI companies regarding their water consumption is essential for informed discourse on sustainability.
Can AI Contribute to Water Conservation?
Interestingly, the same technology that raises concerns about water usage may also offer solutions for conservation. Professor Shaolei Ren from the University of California highlights that AI has the potential to optimise water use in various sectors, including identifying leaks in water distribution systems. An initiative in Surrey has already shown how AI can drastically reduce water wastage, and the World Economic Forum has projected that AI-driven water solutions in the United States could decrease water usage by 15 per cent.
Furthermore, companies like Google are taking steps to mitigate their environmental footprint. The tech giant claims that its data centres are among the most efficient globally, employing air-cooling strategies to limit water usage. Google’s commitment to replenishing 120 per cent of the water it consumes exemplifies how the industry can adopt sustainable practices.
Why it Matters
The burgeoning water consumption associated with AI technologies presents both challenges and opportunities. As we lean further into a digital age dominated by AI, it is imperative to balance technological advancement with environmental stewardship. The dialogue surrounding AI’s water footprint is not merely about numbers; it reflects a broader concern for sustainable resource management in an era where water scarcity is becoming increasingly pressing. The way we address these issues today will shape the ecological landscape for generations to come, underscoring the need for responsible innovation and transparent practices within the tech industry.