The development of generative AI has contributed to the spread of data centers in the United States, China, and other countries worldwide. However, these data centers require massive amounts of energy, and can account for 1-3% of the world’s global electricity usage.

On average, AI facilities use more electricity and need more regulated energy than regular data centers would. This is because they contain advanced machine-learning systems, and are used by adults and students daily. Because of the magnitude and consistent usage of AI facilities, the overheating of data centers has become common.

The solution is simple: water.

These facilities are using metric tons of sanitized water which increases global water shortages and water-borne illnesses. Data centers are now creating cooling towers and air mechanisms in order to reduce overheated AI servers. This process causes about nine liters of water to evaporate for every thousand watts of generated electricity. From an environmental standpoint, the acceleration of readily available generative AI will become hazardous, negatively affecting millions of people who lack drinkable water.