UN Warns AI Growth Could Strain Global Energy and Water Resources
A United Nations report warns that AI’s energy use could double by 2030 to about 3% of global electricity and that data centers may require massive water for cooling, potentially exceeding the world’s drinking-water needs. It highlights the Jevons paradox—improved efficiency can spur higher overall demand—and urges transparent, lifecycle-based governance and sustainable AI practices to curb environmental impact. The report also notes growing inequities in AI infrastructure and calls for global cooperation and environmental disclosures in AI development, citing New Zealand and Australia’s approaches as examples.