"ChatGPT: The AI Revolution Sprouting from Iowa's Cornfields"

Microsoft-backed OpenAI's development of artificial intelligence product ChatGPT required a significant amount of water from the Raccoon and Des Moines rivers in Iowa to cool its powerful supercomputer. The demand for AI tools from tech giants like Microsoft, OpenAI, and Google has led to increased water consumption and environmental concerns. Microsoft's global water consumption spiked by 34% in 2022, largely attributed to its AI research. A researcher estimates that ChatGPT uses approximately 500 milliliters of water for every series of 5 to 50 prompts or questions. Google also reported a 20% growth in water use, partly due to its AI work. Both companies are working on improving the efficiency of their AI systems and reducing their environmental impact.