Sign up to save tools and stay up to date with the latest in AI
bg
bg
1

How To Minimize The Environmental Cost Of AI

Mar 27, 2025 - forbes.com
The article discusses the growing environmental impact of AI, particularly large-scale models that consume significant electricity and water, contributing to carbon emissions and resource depletion. As AI technology advances, its energy demands are increasing, posing sustainability challenges. The C-suite is urged to prioritize AI's environmental impact as a board-level issue, given the pressure from investors and customers who are increasingly factoring sustainability into their decisions. Companies are struggling to meet sustainability targets, with only a small percentage of global Sustainable Development Goals on track.

To address these challenges, the article suggests practical steps for sustainable AI, including measuring and reporting environmental impact, increasing model efficiency, and improving data security. Green data centers and renewable energy sources are proposed as partial solutions, but their development is slow and inconsistent. The article emphasizes that AI and sustainability are interconnected challenges that require integrated strategies to ensure business competitiveness and environmental responsibility.

Key takeaways:

  • AI's environmental impact is significant, with large-scale models consuming substantial electricity and water, raising concerns about sustainability.
  • The C-suite must prioritize AI and sustainability, as both are critical for business success and meeting investor and consumer expectations.
  • Green data centers and carbon offsets are not sufficient solutions; companies need to focus on measuring impact, increasing efficiency, and improving security.
  • Businesses that fail to address AI and sustainability risks falling behind, as these factors are increasingly influencing investment and purchasing decisions.
View Full Article

Comments (0)

Be the first to comment!