Artificial Intelligence Environmental Impact 2025-05-14
2025-05-14
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Q1
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The MP noted that AI, particularly with large user bases like ChatGPT, consumes significant energy and water resources. She referenced specific figures: 57 million daily users for ChatGPT and an estimated 500 ml of water used to cool data centres for every five to 50 questions asked.
We know that AI has the power to transform civilisation, but its huge drain on the environment is a problem. The Minister has explained some of the work being done through the AI energy council, yet with increased droughts and climate emergencies, what steps are the Government taking specifically to manage water consumption and sustainability in line with their AI ambitions?
I assure my hon. Friend that the Government are committed to ensuring that AI development aligns with sustainability goals. We welcome advances in cooling technologies such as dry cooling and closed-loop systems, and we promote the use of renewable energy resources. I chair the AI Ministers group which brings together Ministers from all Departments to coordinate cross-cutting challenges, including water consumption.
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Q2
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The MP referenced the GrowUp vertical agriculture project in his constituency, which relies heavily on data for its operations. He highlighted that agriculture is not represented in any working parties despite AI's potential benefits.
The astonishingly successful GrowUp vertical agriculture project in Sandwich, my constituency, is highly dependent on data and could be greatly assisted by artificial intelligence. Agriculture is not represented on any of the working parties; will the Minister ensure that agriculture is included and possibly visit the project?
As I have set out, we have inter-ministerial meetings that bring together Ministers from all Departments, including DEFRA. The Secretary of State regularly meets representatives from the National Farmers Union and other Secretaries of State to discuss these issues.
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