UN Report Warns AI Expansion to Double Data Center Resource Use by 2030
A report by the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health warns that data centers are expected to double their power and water consumption by 2030 due to the growing demand from artificial intelligence (AI). In 2025, data centers consumed 448 terawatt-hours of electricity globally, with AI accounting for a significant portion. The report highlights the environmental costs associated with AI, including increased carbon emissions and electronic waste. The institute's director, Kaveh Madani, emphasized the need for responsible planning to prevent resource strain and environmental degradation. The report calls for governments to address these challenges as AI infrastructure continues to expand. 
