We’re all talking about it. And some of us are using it. But here is why AI is bad for the environment

By Diane Small

I have a lot to say about artificial intelligence (AI). Like, a LOT. I get that it’s neither good nor bad. Like a hammer, it can be used to build and create – or to destroy and kill. Depending on who is controlling it.

Unfortunately, in my opinion, those controlling it are, well, borderline demonic. But that’s just me. So let’s not get into that right now.

But there is something objective I can say about AI – it’s crap for the planet. And funnily enough, most of the same billionaires who are pushing it are the same ones blathering on about man-made ‘climate change’. Things that make you go ‘hmmm’, am I right?

Maybe those oligarchs need to read this article to learn more about why AI is bad for the environment. Or maybe they do know, and just don’t care. In any case, I think this information should be shared far and wide!

5 Reasons Why AI Is Harming The Planet

1. The Carbon Footprint of AI

One of the first reasons AI is bad for the environment is its massive, ever-hungry energy consumption. That’s mainly because training large-scale AI models requires vast amounts of computational power, leading to high electricity usage.

In fact, according to research from the University of Massachusetts, training a single deep learning model can emit as much carbon dioxide as five cars over their entire lifetime. Like, from factory production to the junkyard, decades later.

And with the increasing reliance on AI for data processing, recommendation systems, and autonomous applications, this energy demand continues to grow.

Most AI data centres rely on fossil fuels for power, further exacerbating global carbon emissions. If you care about such things. While some companies have pledged to use renewable energy sources, the overall environmental impact of AI remains significantly huge.

2. Huge Water Consumption

Another lesser-known reason AI is bad for the environment is its massive water consumption. Cooling systems in data centres use enormous amounts of water to prevent overheating. This contributes to water scarcity in regions where data centres are built. And water scarcity is growing pretty much worldwide.

The more AI is integrated into industries, the greater this burden becomes. A HUGE issue, if you ask me.

3. E-Waste and AI Hardware

The growth of mobile phones and personal computers has been an absolute disaster for the planet. There’s more toxic, electronic waste blighting the Earth now than there has ever been. And AI development is just going to make that worse.

The hardware required for AI computations—such as GPUs, TPUs, and specialised AI chips—has a limited lifespan. As technology advances rapidly, older hardware is discarded, leading to excessive e-waste.

Improper disposal of these electronic components is pretty much the norm. And the result? The release of toxic chemicals into the environment, polluting our soil and water sources.

4. Mining Disasters

As mentioned above, hardware is required for AI. And that hardware comes from mining. And that mining is rarely done ethically or sustainably. Which means that just getting the components for AI hardware itself is bad for the environment.

Let’s also not forget that many elements that are required by AI are also often mined by children. So, AI isn’t just an ecological disaster; it’s an ethical one, too.

5. 5G Health Impacts

AI will be working hand in hand with 5G networks. And those networks use microwave frequencies to function.

The health impacts of 5G have been well documented, here in Eluxe and elsewhere. And any studies that deny that are likely to have been funded by the telecoms industry.

But the reality is: 5G has several horrendous consequences for not only human health, but the health of birds, bees, and other wildlife, too. And the rise of AI will only increase those frightening realities.

The Need for Sustainable AI Solutions

Ok, by now, it should be pretty clear that AI is bad for the environment. So, what can we do about that?

Well, there are some solutions.

My personal favourite? Just don’t use it.

But I am aware I am probably in a minority in that sense.

So, other solutions include encouraging – or even forcing by law – companies and governments into investing in energy-efficient hardware, optimising AI algorithms for lower power consumption, and transitioning to greener energy sources.

Additionally, governments should regulate AI energy usage and encourage the recycling of outdated hardware.

Alternatives to AI: How to Reduce Reliance

While AI has become a dominant force in many industries, alternatives exist that can help reduce its environmental impact:

• Human Expertise and Manual Processes: In many cases, traditional human decision-making and analysis can replace AI. This would reduce energy consumption and maintain human employment.
• Simpler Algorithms and Low-Power Computing: Instead of relying on complex AI models, businesses can use simpler rule-based systems that require less computing power.
• Decentralised and Localised Solutions: Instead of cloud-based AI, companies can use localised data processing to minimise energy-intensive data centre operations.
• Eco-Friendly Tech Solutions: Open-source and low-power software alternatives can replace energy-heavy AI-based applications.
• Encouraging Conscious Consumption: Avoiding unnecessary AI-driven recommendations and automation can help individuals and businesses reduce their reliance on environmentally costly technologies.

I hate to say it, but it seems AI is here to stay. But given that AI is so bad for the environment, the industry must take responsibility and implement sustainable practices to ensure that technological advancements do not come at the cost of the planet.

Without such measures, AI’s growing footprint will only make environmental challenges worse in years to come.

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Diane Small

Senior Features Writer at Eluxe Magazine

A University of Texas journalism graduate and serious chocolate enthusiast, Diane was a sub-editor at the Houston Chronicle before falling pregnant. Today, she is the proud mom of two kids under the age of three, and freelances for Eluxe in between nappy changes and feedings.

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