Indirect carbon emissions from the operations of major AI-focused tech giants have soared by an average of 150% between 2020 and 2023, as per a new report from the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The increase is primarily driven by the soaring energy demands of data centres powering artificial intelligence technologies.

The ITU tracked the greenhouse gas emissions of 200 digital companies during the period and found that the growing reliance on AI has caused a dramatic rise in electricity use, with data centre consumption increasing four times faster than overall global electricity demand.

Amazon recorded the highest rise in operational carbon emissions, with a 182% jump over the three-year period. Microsoft followed with a 155% increase, while Meta and Alphabet saw spikes of 145% and 138%, respectively.

As AI development intensifies, emissions from top AI systems are projected to reach up to 102.6 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent annually. The report warned that this surge could place unprecedented strain on global energy infrastructure.

Indirect emissions, or Scope 2 emissions, refer to those generated by purchased electricity, steam, heating, and cooling consumed by a company, as opposed to direct emissions from company-owned sources.

While many digital companies have committed to reducing their carbon footprint, the report found that these targets have yet to translate into tangible emission cuts.

Meanwhile, Meta directed attention to its sustainability report, noting ongoing efforts to reduce emissions, energy, and water use in its data centres. Amazon stated it is investing in carbon-free energy, including nuclear and renewables, to run its operations. 

Microsoft highlighted its shift towards chip-level liquid cooling systems to save energy in data centres and noted a doubling in its power savings rate last year.

As the AI revolution accelerates, the ITU’s findings highlight an urgent need for the tech industry to balance innovation with sustainability.

Moreover, according to a study on ChatGPT’s water consumption, the AI chatbot consumes 0.5 litres of water during each of its lengthy conversations with a user.

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