Concerns around the environmental impact of AI are picking up pace, especially around the energy consumption associated with increased processing power
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in the past few years has led to huge gains across industries. From discovering the genetic markers for complex diseases to deciphering ancient manuscripts, its potential and impact are accelerating. Whether it is being powered via a supercomputer, edge computing methods or a traditional data center, across the globe society is feeling the positive effect of advances in the AI industry.
Concerns around the environmental impact of this innovation are not new, but they are picking up pace, especially around the energy consumption associated with the increased processing power required by all manner of systems to run. The United Nations Environment Program recently expressed concerns about the mounting e-waste and cooling considerations for data centers more specifically, following on from similar concerns from academia concerning the carbon footprint of such innovation. This is also amidst the backdrop of governments globally implementing new regulations and reporting requirements as part of initiatives to curb the impact of climate change, such as the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP) or the UK’s Net Zero goals. It comes as no surprise that Gartner has named energy-efficient computing as a top technology trend for 2025, as organizations come under pressure to show they are considering the impact AI is having on the environment.
Businesses that are not considering sustainability as part of their AI infrastructure and technology strategies are at risk of stunting their own innovation. Beyond regulatory risks, failing to keep pace with sustainable practices can cause reputational damage, as they may be seen as falling ‘behind’ in an increasingly sustainability-focused world. Energy price increases also leave businesses more vulnerable without energy-efficient infrastructure, with high energy conception impacting operational budgets and scalability.
To avoid falling behind or stunting innovation, businesses must consider sustainable AI frameworks that support operational efficiency. Prioritizing the implementation of technologies that limit energy consumption first and foremost will not only support regulatory compliance and contribute to greater sustainability goals, but it can also future-proof against market volatility with its reduced reliance on energy as well as strengthen brand reputation in an increasingly environmentally conscious world. Many of the offerings on the market today can balance sustainability efforts, with high processing capabilities. For example, at ASUS we have partnered with Intel to provide servers that prioritize energy efficiency. Taking that first step and considering a strategy to implement technologies that balance regulatory pressures, customer expectations and overall business goals will help businesses feel confident innovation won’t come at a cost to the environment.
This is echoed by IDC, who recently released predictions on the technology industry which outlined; “To address the environmental challenges of harnessing AI’s benefits, enterprises are turning to Sustainable AI Frameworks that focus on minimizing the environmental impact of artificial intelligence by addressing key elements such as energy efficiency, resource optimization and e-waste reduction.”
Innovation and market pressure alike will hasten over the next 12 months, separating the businesses that survive or thrive. Those who embed sustainability into their AI strategies will lead the way.
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