Big Tech Says Generative AI Will Save the Planet. It Does not Offer Much Proof
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The Climate Claims Under Fire
Big Tech has been claiming that AI will help save the planet. But a new report suggests these claims lack solid evidence.
The 5-10% Claim
In late 2023, Google claimed AI could help cut global greenhouse gas emissions by 5-10% by 2030. This number was widely quoted.
But when energy researcher Ketan Joshi investigated, he found the source was flimsy:
- The number came from a Google/BCG paper
- Which cited a 2021 BCG analysis
- Which based its estimate on experience with clients
The Report Findings
Joshi analyzed over 150 claims about AI and climate:
- Just 25% were backed by academic research
- More than 33% cited no evidence at all
The Energy Reality
- Coal plants are staying open
- Hundreds of gigawatts of new gas power planned
- Nearly 100 gigawatts earmarked for data centers
The Bottom Line
People make assertions about AI and climate but often lack rigor. Can we trust Big Tech promises, or is it just marketing?