Environmental Impacts of Artificial Intelligence - Evaluation of current trends and compilation of an overview study for Greenpeace e.V., Hamburg

This report describes the environmental impact of artificial intelligence, particularly through the digital infrastructure required for its training and operation and the associated energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, resource requirements and the generation of electronic waste. In addition, the so-called ‘indirect’ and ‘systemic’ effects of the use of AI are described using examples. The report highlights ways in which AI can become more sustainable and formulates policy options for reducing its harmful environmental impacts.