By Kashmira Konduparty
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Tuesday called on artificial intelligence companies to be more transparent about the environmental costs associated with developing and operating AI systems, warning that the rapid growth of the technology could place increasing pressure on global energy and water resources.
Speaking at London Climate Action Week focused on artificial intelligence and sustainable development, Guterres said technology firms should publicly disclose the environmental impact of their AI operations, including energy consumption, water usage and greenhouse gas emissions linked to data centers and computing infrastructure.
“The environmental footprint of artificial intelligence is growing rapidly,” Guterres said, urging companies to provide greater transparency as governments and regulators seek to understand the broader consequences of AI expansion.
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The comments come as demand for artificial intelligence services continues to surge worldwide. The development and operation of advanced AI models require vast amounts of computing power, leading technology companies to invest billions of dollars in new data centers and high-performance computing facilities.
Researchers have increasingly raised concerns about the environmental effects of these investments. Large-scale AI systems rely on thousands of advanced processors operating around the clock, consuming significant amounts of electricity and requiring extensive cooling systems that often depend on substantial water resources.
Guterres said greater disclosure would help policymakers, researchers and the public evaluate whether AI development is occurring in a sustainable manner. He added that transparency would also encourage companies to pursue cleaner energy sources and more efficient technologies.
Several major technology firms, including OpenAI, Google, Microsoft and Meta, have announced ambitious plans to expand AI infrastructure over the next decade. Many companies have also pledged to reduce carbon emissions and increase the use of renewable energy in their operations.
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The UN chief stressed that artificial intelligence has the potential to deliver significant benefits, including advances in healthcare, education, scientific research and climate modeling. But he said those benefits should not come at the expense of environmental sustainability.
“We must ensure that innovation supports people and the planet,” Guterres said.
The United Nations has increasingly focused on the governance of artificial intelligence as governments around the world work to balance technological innovation with concerns about safety, ethics, employment and environmental impact.
Guterres’ remarks add to the growing international calls for greater oversight of the AI industry as companies race to develop more powerful systems and expand the infrastructure needed to support them.