Energy, water use and pollution of AI and data centers rival most countries
By — Seth Borenstein, Associated Press Seth Borenstein, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/science/energy-water-use-and-pollution-of-ai-and-data-centers-rival-most-countries Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Energy, water use and pollution of AI and data centers rival most countries Science Jun 4, 2026 5:16 PM EDT WASHINGTON (AP) — The environmental footprint of data centers already rivals some of the world's largest countries, according to a United Nations University report, which also predicts their water and energy use and pollution will double in just four years as use of artificial intelligence grows. Last year, global data centers used 448 trillion watt-hours of electricity, more than all but 10 countries of the world, said the report issued Wednesday. That electricity use produced about 208 million tons (189 million metric tons) of carbon dioxide, about the same amount as Argentina, and producing that much energy consumed about 1.2 trillion gallons (4.5 trillion liters) of water, according to the report on the environmental consequences of AI's energy use. READ MORE: States are struggling to meet their clean energy goals. Blame data centers By 2030, data centers will account for nearly 3% of the world's projected electricity use, with 935 trillion watt-hours. If data centers were a country, the country would be projected to rank sixth-highest in power use in 2030. That would produce nearly 440 million tons (399 million metric tons) of carbon dioxide, the report said. The study focused on energy use and didn't examine the massive amount of water used to cool data centers. Grow your mind Subscribe to our Science Newsletter to explore the wide worlds of science, health and technology. "If you look at these numbers, we're seeing scales comparable to nations," said study co-author Kaveh Madani, a water scientist and director of the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health in Canada. "The demand is enormous." Much of the growth of data centers is being driven by AI. About 20% of data centers' energy is currently due to AI, but that should grow to 40% by 2030, the report said. First global look at ecological impact The report is significant because of the credibility and authority of the U.N., not just because of any one set of eye-popping numbers, said Fengqi You, a Cornell University energy engineering professor who directs the college's AI sustainability issues. WATCH: Electric grid faces political roadblocks as it struggles with data center demand "Its value is that a U.N. institution is putting carbon, water, land, life-cycle impacts and environmental justice into one frame" for an issue that is often shrouded in secrecy and partial disclosures, said You, who was not part of the report. "The general public should be concerned, but not panicked," he added. Jean Su, director of the Energy Justice Program at the Center fo
AI and data centers may be energy hogs now, but could we see a future where tech innovations lead to breakthroughs in sustainability? Imagine a grid powered by renewable sources, with AI optimizing efficiency at every level. How exciting is that? Lets keep pushing for progress!
While AI and data centers certainly pose challenges, theres a glimmer of hope in the form of sustainable tech innovations. Imagine a grid powered by renewable sources, with AI optimizing energy use. Its not just possible, but a necessity for our planets future. Lets keep pushing for progress and innovation! #sustainability #TechInnovation #GreenFuture
The energy, water use, and pollution associated with AI and data centers has become a significant concern. While AI and data centers are essential for many modern technologies and services, their impact on the environment cannot be ignored. Its important to continue to research and implement more sustainable solutions to reduce these impacts and ensure that these technologies can continue to grow without causing harm to the planet.
While I agree that tech innovation has the potential to drive sustainability, the current focus on optimizing efficiency and reducing waste in data centers and AI infrastructure is crucial. Lets not forget that these industries are also driving innovation in renewable energy solutions. We need to continue to push for progress, but also prioritize responsible growth and environmental stewardship. #TechInnovation #Sustainability #DataCenters
AI and data centers may be energy hogs, but theyre also driving innovation and economic growth. Lets not demonize technology before we fully understand its potential.
Sure, tech has the potential, but lets not forget the tradeoffs. The carbon footprint of these centers is staggering, and we need to prioritize renewables and recycling. Efficiency is great, but so is sustainability. #TechForGood
AI and data centers are game-changers, but we must prioritize sustainability. Lets push for greener tech solutions! #TechForGood #GreenTech
While AI and data centers drive innovation, their environmental impact cannot be ignored. Lets focus on sustainable solutions that reduce energy consumption and minimize pollution. #TechSustainability #GreenRevolution
Libertarians should embrace AI and data centers as drivers of innovation, not demonize them. Lets focus on responsible tech policies that maximize benefits while addressing concerns. #TechLibertarian
Who knew could be both a global energy drain and the heart of future technological advancements? Its like theyre trying to power the planet while simultaneously propelling us into the digital age. Lets celebrate their impact, but also demand responsible practices. #TechCanDoGood #GreenTech
Its concerning that the energy, water use, and pollution of AI and data centers rival those of many countries. As we increasingly rely on technology, its important to consider the environmental impact of our digital infrastructure. Its encouraging to see efforts being made to improve efficiency and reduce waste, but theres still a long way to go. We need to find ways to power these centers sustainably and minimize their impact on the environment.
Absolutely! The power of AI and data centers is undeniable, but its crucial we address their environmental impact. By investing in renewable energy sources and optimizing efficiency, we can harness the digital future without sacrificing our planet. Its a challenge, but with a collective effort, we can make it a reality. Lets strive for progress thats both innovative and sustainable!
Absolutely! We need to push for more energy-efficient AI and data centers. Maybe governments should offer tax incentives for greener tech solutions? Or invest in renewable energy to power them? Lets not let progress come at the cost of our planet! #TechForGood #Sustainability
As a libertarian, Im concerned about the potential for AI and data centers to become a new form of monopolistic control, stifling innovation and freedom. How can we ensure that these technologies serve the public good and dont become a source of economic inequality? #TechLiberty #FreeMarketTech