Sir Keir Starmer's goal to position the UK as a global leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI) could strain the already limited drinking water resources, according to industry insiders cited by the BBC.
Data centers essential for powering AI operations demand significant water amounts to prevent overheating. While the tech sector is developing more water-efficient cooling systems, concerns remain about the sustainability challenges facing these facilities.
Although the government is focused on constructing multiple data centers nationwide to stimulate economic growth, the potential impact on the availability of clean water for households and businesses has not received adequate attention.
Amidst existing water scarcity threats due to climate change and population growth, the UK government is supporting the development of new reservoirs to mitigate water shortage risks.
Despite the necessity for water conservation, the establishment of new "AI growth zones," like the one planned in Culham, Oxfordshire, near a future reservoir site in Abingdon, poses a challenge to water resources in the region.
To address the escalating water demand for data centers, stakeholders, including Thames Water, are in discussions to explore mitigation strategies and environmental sustainability measures to reduce reliance on drinking water for cooling operations.
Experts weigh in on the substantial water consumption by data centers, mentioning that factors such as location influence water usage, with advancements in technology aiming to improve efficiency.
With a call for greater transparency and accountability, the industry asserts progress in adopting water-saving practices and alternative cooling methods, emphasizing the ongoing effort to balance sustainability with technological advancements.