What are the environmental costs of AI chatbots?

Originally published on February 27, 2025

Overview

Scientists are already using AI to map environmental risks, analyze huge amounts of climate data, and make predictions to combat climate change. But AI technologies like chatbots also use an enormous amount of energy, and many people are concerned with their environmental costs. In this lesson, students will investigate how these technologies consume energy and water and the broader impact of AI on sustainability.

AI & Science
45 minutes

Created by Chris Mah

Digital Materials

Teacher guide

Objectives

After this experience, students will be able to

Explain the energy and water demands of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Analyze the environmental impact of AI technologies.

Questions explored

How does the training and running of AI models consume energy and water?
What are the environmental impacts of AI technologies in terms of carbon emissions and water usage?

Key Terms

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The ability of computers to imitate human-like thinking, learning, and problem-solving.

Carbon Footprint

The amount of carbon dioxide emitted by the activities of a person or other entity

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Created by Isabel Paz Reyes Sieh, CRAFT Student Designer 2022

Adapted by Chris Mah