The growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) has significant environmental implications, with the carbon footprint of training large AI models being a major concern. The energy consumption required to power AI systems is substantial, and the environmental impact of AI is likely to worsen as the technology continues to advance.
The training of large AI models requires massive amounts of computing power, which is often generated by fossil fuels and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the production of AI hardware, such as graphics processing units (GPUs), also has a significant environmental impact due to the energy required to manufacture these devices.
Experts warn that the environmental consequences of AI could be catastrophic if left unchecked, and urgent action is needed to mitigate the negative impacts of AI on the environment. This includes developing more energy-efficient AI algorithms, using renewable energy sources to power AI systems, and designing more sustainable AI hardware.