What's the situation with AI water usage? It turns out it's kinda complex.

We're looking at this Wired article:

https://www.wired.com/story/karen-hao-empire-of-ai-water-use-statistics/

It examines the controversy and complexities surrounding the water consumption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data centers. It discusses how exaggerated statistics about AI water use, such as a major error found in a journalist's book concerning a Google data center in Chile, have been challenged by critics, including an individual who asserts the severity of the issue is "fake." The article explains that data centers primarily use water for cooling processors, and the actual consumption varies greatly depending on location, climate, and technology used, with some companies opting for recycled water. Furthermore, it argues that concerns about AI's water footprint, especially when compared to other thirsty industries like agriculture and golf courses, are often rooted in a broader societal rejection of AI's rapid growth and perceived value. Ultimately, the text advises that while some water estimates may be flawed, the environmental impact of data centers cannot be ignored in water-stressed regions, highlighting the need for transparency from technology companies.

#artificialintelligence #aiethics #ai #environment #science

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