AI’s growing role in environmental sustainability

Although artificial intelligence carries environmental costs, its growing role in energy management and emissions reduction could reshape how industries address climate challenges.
Artificial intelligence is driving higher energy demand, yet the same technology is increasingly being used to cut emissions, save water and improve efficiency across major industries.

AI is expanding rapidly, driving rising electricity and water consumption, which has fuelled concerns about environmental damage. Growth in data centres and intensive computing workloads is increasing pressure on global energy systems.

At the same time, AI is being deployed to reduce resource use and emissions across multiple industries. In agriculture, data-driven irrigation systems help farmers apply water more precisely, cutting waste while lowering the energy needed for pumping and distribution.

Efficiency gains are also visible in data centres, where intelligent systems manage workloads and cooling more effectively. Despite a sharp rise in global internet traffic, improvements in energy management have helped slow the growth of electricity consumption.

Energy companies, building operators and airlines are adopting AI to cut emissions and improve efficiency. From detecting methane leaks to optimising heating systems and flight routes, wider use of these technologies could help balance AI’s environmental costs with measurable climate benefits.

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