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Two months after its release in November 2022, OpenAI's ChatGPT had 100 million active users, and suddenly tech corporations were racing to offer the public more "generative AI." One consequence of the explosion of artificial intelligence is clear: this technology's environmental footprint is large and growing.
AI use is directly responsible for carbon emissions from non-renewable electricity and for the consumption of millions of gallons of fresh water, and it indirectly boosts impacts from building and maintaining the power-hungry equipment on which AI runs. Globally, the number of cloud data centers, which house a multitude of computers performing complex calculations for AI operations, is estimated to be between approximately 9,000 and 11,000. More are under construction. The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that data centers' electricity consumption in 2026 will double that of 2022 — 1,000 terawatts, roughly equivalent to Japan's current total consumption. Moreover, AI data centers require a significant amount of water due to their cooling needs. These facilities generate a lot of heat because of the intense computation performed by the servers. To prevent overheating and maintain optimal performance, these servers need to be cooled down, which is often achieved through water-based cooling systems.
In conclusion, the rapid advancement and adoption of artificial intelligence have undeniably brought about a new era of technological innovation. However, this progress comes with a significant environmental cost. The increasing reliance on AI has led to a surge in carbon emissions, water consumption, and the construction of power-intensive infrastructure. As we look towards the future, it is crucial that we balance the benefits of AI with its environmental impact. The challenge lies in harnessing the power of AI while mitigating its ecological footprint, ensuring a sustainable future for all.
What is the author's attitude towards the development of AI and its impacts on the environment?
AWe need to balance the benefits of AI and its environmental impact.正確答案
BWe must stop building data centers that are exhausting natural resources.
CWe can move data centers to areas that can provide abundant resources.
DWe should properly maintain the power-hungry equipment that runs AI.
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