The relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and climate change is complex, presenting divergent views: some argue that AI exacerbates the climate problem, while others believe it can offer solutions. Regardless of the perspective, both topics constitute crucial issues that humanity must face today.
Paulo Artaxo, a professor at the Institute of Physics of USP and coordinator of Sustainable Amazon, commented on this scenario in an interview given to Olhar Digital. He recognizes AI's potential as a useful tool in combating climate change, citing examples such as the development of more advanced disaster alert systems or the search for methods to mitigate global water scarcity.
However, when analyzing the short-term horizon, Artaxo points out that AI can hinder the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The reason lies in the need for AI systems to operate in data centers, which demand high energy consumption.
To illustrate the magnitude of consumption, the UN reports that AI data centers can consume almost three times more electricity combined than Nigeria, Pakistan, and Bangladesh together—countries that, combined, house 650 million inhabitants. Since data centers depend on electricity, and this cannot always be generated by renewable sources such as solar, hydroelectric, or wind, the use of thermal power plants becomes relevant.
Thermal power plants convert heat into electrical energy through the burning of fuels—such as coal, natural gas, oil, or biomass. This process heats water in a boiler, generating steam that moves a turbine connected to a generator, transforming mechanical energy into electrical energy. The main drawback of these plants is the environmental impact, which depends on the fuel used.
The combustion of fossil fuels, especially oil and coal, releases large amounts of carbon dioxide. Additionally, energy generation emits pollutants such as sulfur and nitrogen oxides, as well as soot, which deteriorates air quality, potentially causing respiratory diseases and acid rain.
Artaxo emphasizes that 'gigantic data centers consume a brutal amount of natural resources—electricity and water, in particular.' The specialist categorically states that 'installing data centers to emit greenhouse gases from electricity generation makes no sense, neither in Brazil nor in other countries.' For this reason, he highlights the importance of having regulation, both in Brazil and globally, to ensure that such data centers are powered exclusively by solar and wind energy.
There are proposals in this regard included in the government plans of the candidates for President of the Republic in 2026, as well as countermeasures in Redata. Meanwhile, technology corporations, which have established themselves as major energy consumers, support projects involving both renewable sources and fossil fuels.
In a recent speech, Simon Stiell, head of the climate department at the UN, labeled the AI industry as an 'energy devourer.' Stiell argues that the sector must 'respect science and begin to align with global climate efforts—urgently,' a position that Artaxo shares, although he doubts it will happen soon.