The United Nations University has released a report highlighting the significant environmental footprint of data centers, which are increasingly driven by artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The report reveals that the energy consumption of global data centers rivals that of some of the world’s largest countries, with their water and energy use projected to double within the next four years.
Energy and Water Consumption
In 2025, data centers consumed 448 trillion watt-hours of electricity, surpassing the energy use of all but ten countries globally. This consumption resulted in approximately 208 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions, comparable to the emissions of Argentina. The production of this energy also required about 1.2 trillion gallons of water. By 2030, data centers are expected to account for nearly 3% of the world’s electricity use, with their power consumption projected to reach 935 trillion watt-hours.
AI’s Growing Role
The report underscores the role of AI in driving the growth of data centers. Currently, AI accounts for about 20% of data centers’ energy use, a figure expected to rise to 40% by 2030. This increase is attributed to the growing integration of AI into everyday life, enhancing safety, efficiency, and productivity.
Industry Response
Caleb Max, President of the National Artificial Intelligence Association, emphasized the efficiency gains and societal benefits brought by AI. Meanwhile, Josh Levi, President of the Data Center Coalition, stated the industry’s commitment to responsible growth and collaboration with policymakers and communities to mitigate environmental impacts.
Public Awareness and Action
The report calls for greater transparency from companies regarding data center operations and energy consumption. It also suggests that individuals can contribute to reducing AI’s energy demand by being more concise in their digital interactions. For instance, reducing the word count in AI queries can significantly decrease energy use.
Overall, the UN report serves as a critical reminder of the environmental challenges posed by the rapid expansion of AI and data centers, urging both industry and individuals to take proactive steps towards sustainability.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
