Sustainability Alert: AI Expert Claims Every ChatGPT Query Wastes Half A Litre of Water, Urging Need for a Sustainable Strategy

Impact of ChatGPT’s Popularity on the Environment

Recent figures reveal that ChatGPT has amassed over 300 million weekly users, a milestone announced by OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman. While this surge in popularity is promising for OpenAI, it raises substantial environmental concerns, as experts warn of the negative implications of rapidly growing generative AI technologies.

The Alarming Energy Use of Generative AI

During a recent talk at the Victoria State Library, Australian AI scholar Professor Kate Crawford, recognized as one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in AI, highlighted a striking statistic: without a robust sustainability strategy, generative AI could consume energy equivalent to that of Japan within just a year. Crawford emphasizes the pressing need for reducing carbon footprints, stating, “We are under enormous pressure to try to decarbonise by mid-century.”

“You can’t outrun climate change. This should be a concern for everyone, including tech billionaires. We simply do not have the luxury of building energy-intensive systems that leave behind carbon footprints equal to those of entire industrial nations.”

Water Footprint of AI Queries

Professor Crawford makes a startling comparison, revealing that each ChatGPT query results in approximately half a liter of water being wasted. This concerning figure suggests that instead of competing in the AI race, companies should prioritize sustainable practices.

“We’re wasting a lot of water with these systems, and very few people realize that it’s a significant problem. My belief is that sustainability should be the number one priority for the sector, rather than merely engaging in competition.”

Reassessing AI’s Role in Society

Since ChatGPT’s introduction, the technology landscape has dramatically changed. Professor Crawford argues that it’s time for us to evaluate not only the utility of these AI systems but also their impact on humanity and the environment. Generative AI should promote social progress rather than create challenges that future generations must face.

As we witness the rise of AI technologies, it becomes increasingly vital to integrate sustainability within the framework of innovation. The current trajectory poses risks that could compromise our ecological balance, making it essential for stakeholders to align their strategies with environmental stewardship.

For further insights, refer to the Sydney Morning Herald and additional information can be found on Wccftech.