By 2027, global AI data centers could consume up to 1.7 trillion gallons of water each year. And, as reported in Essence, water’s only the beginning:

“Data centers’ enormous energy demands often lead to the construction or expansion of nearby fossil fuel-powered plants. This introduces air pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and formaldehyde, which worsen respiratory conditions like asthma… Additionally, pressure on local power grids can lead to increased electricity costs, deepening energy insecurity for families already struggling to make ends meet.”

In drought-prone or water-stressed areas, the risk is even greater, with the diversion of billions of gallons of water to cool AI servers “threatening not only household water access but entire ecosystems,” according to the Essence report.