TITLE:
The Hidden Cost of AI: Unveiling and Addressing the Environmental Impact of Digital Consumption
AUTHORS:
Xiaotang Wang
KEYWORDS:
Artificial Intelligence, Environmental Reform, Data Centers and Energy Consumption
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.12 No.11,
November
28,
2024
ABSTRACT: Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of modern society, influencing every aspect of people’s lives, from education, to business, to healthcare, to name a few. However, the widespread adoption of AI carries an environmental cost, as training and using AI generates a significant carbon footprint. The environmental cost of AI should not be disregarded, as the use of AI is increasing exponentially. Yet, in this research I argue that AI users do not seem to recognize this problem. I discuss reasons as to why users might underestimate the carbon footprint of AI. And I highlight possible solutions to this pressing problem. I believe that with more research and collaboration, progress can be made toward reducing the environmental impact of AI.