A coalition of over 100 organizations has issued a compelling open letter urging the artificial intelligence industry and regulatory bodies to address the significant environmental impacts posed by AI technologies. Esteemed advocacy groups such as Amnesty International and the AI Now Institute have signed this letter, signaling the gravity of the issue. The letter highlights growing evidence that AI systems not only increase emissions but also perpetuate dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
The open letter points out that AI systems are depleting critical resources, straining electric grids to their limits, and causing utilities to revert to environmentally harmful power sources like coal. It calls on governments and technology companies to ensure that new data centers do not further exhaust water and land resources. The organizations demand transparency regarding AI's environmental footprint throughout its entire lifecycle.
"AI can never be a 'climate solution' if it runs on fossil fuels." – The letter (signed by Amnesty International and the AI Now Institute)
In a concerning development, President Donald Trump has announced plans to use an energy emergency declaration to accelerate the approval of new power stations specifically for AI data centers. Despite the adverse environmental externalities, both the tech sector and governmental bodies continue to justify further investments in AI. The rush to develop and operate AI infrastructure has led to severe strain on electric grids.
"We must move beyond viewing technological progress as inherently beneficial or limitless, and instead prioritize AI processes that contribute meaningfully to society while minimizing environmental and human harm." – The letter (signed by Amnesty International and the AI Now Institute)
The letter underscores the staggering environmental costs associated with AI technologies. For instance, if one in ten U.S. residents were to ask OpenAI's ChatGPT to compose an email weekly, it would result in the consumption of over 435 million liters of water. Most data centers, which can span millions of square feet, require substantial amounts of water to cool their equipment and maintain optimal humidity levels.
The undersigned organizations express concern over the U.S.'s intention to pursue growth indiscriminately, particularly as Trump promises expedited environmental approvals for companies investing $1 billion or more domestically. The letter calls for AI systems to align with planetary boundaries, emphasizing the need for sustainable technological development.
"We, the signatories, demand that AI systems be made compatible with our planetary boundaries." – The letter (signed by Amnesty International and the AI Now Institute)
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