The increasing dominance of Big Tech in AI may lead to a literal thirst for water for everyone else, as data centers are projected to consume 450 million gallons of water daily by 2030.
This poses a significant concern for drought-stricken regions, such as Spain's Talavera de la Reina, where a planned data facility could consume 176 million gallons annually.
Data center operators require large amounts of energy, and the lack of transparency in measuring water usage exacerbates the issue.
Only 39% of data centers measured their water usage last year, highlighting the need for greater transparency.
The demand for computing power is outpacing sustainability efforts, creating a challenge for the industry.
Even simple interactions with AI, like a 20-question conversation with ChatGPT, contribute to water consumption.
Source : https://thehustle.co/big-tech-s-thirst-for-ai-dominance-may-bring-literal-thirst-for-everyone-else/
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