Tech giants’ indirect emissions rose 150% in three years as AI expands, UN agency says

A recent report by a United Nations agency highlights a significant surge in indirect carbon emissions from four major tech companies heavily invested in artificial intelligence. Between 2020 and 2023, these emissions increased by an average of 150%, raising concerns about the environmental impact of expanding AI operations. The findings underscore the urgent need for the tech industry to address its carbon footprint as AI technology becomes more integral to their business models. The study points to the energy-intensive nature of AI development and deployment as a primary driver of these emissions. Data centers, which power AI algorithms and store vast amounts of information, consume substantial amounts of electricity, often generated from non-renewable sources. This trend, coupled with the rapid growth of AI applications, has amplified the environmental challenges associated with tech innovation, prompting calls for more sustainable practices. In response to these findings, environmental advocates are urging tech companies to adopt greener energy solutions and improve efficiency in their AI operations. Some companies have already begun investing in renewable energy and more sustainable data center technologies. However, experts argue that a more comprehensive industry-wide effort is essential to mitigate the environmental impact of AI and ensure that technological advancements do not come at the expense of the planet’s health.

— Authored by Next24 Live