Thirsty Intelligence: AI's Environmental Cost
What I’ve learned about AI’s water, energy, noise, and resource use.
When someone I trust and respect asked me for my opinion on a social media post decrying the use of AI because of its impact on the environment, little did I know it would begin a months-long research journey to understand the hype and the facts. The result? This report, Thirsty Intelligence.
Thirsty Intelligence takes an evidence-based look at four of AI’s environmental impacts, places them in the context of other modern advances and conveniences, and gives us concrete steps to reduce our digital impact on the environment.
Wondering about AI's Environmental Impact? You're Not Alone.
Doesn’t AI use a lot of water to keep servers cool?
How much energy is behind a single AI query?
Are tech companies being transparent about AI’s footprint?
Is there such a thing as “sustainable AI”?Â
What role can creatives play in pushing for change?Â
Get Evidence-Based Answers About AI
✦ Analysis of data on AI’s water, energy, noise and resource consumption
✦ How AI is helping solve environmental issues
✦ Why AI is often portrayed so negatively
✦ Whether abstinence helps with environmental concerns
✦ How we can shape responsible and ethical AI use
About Me
Hi, I’m Theresa Benson—also known as The AI Quilter. I’m an artist, author, and educator who helps anyone bring AI into their creative process without losing sight of what really matters, including sustainability.
I wrote Digital Muse: Bringing AI Into Your Creative Process and travel the country speaking to AI-curious communities about how technology and tradition can work together.
With a background in both design and technology, I bring a grounded perspective to AI—celebrating its creative potential while also shining a light on its environmental impact.
My goal? To help you create boldly, and responsibly.
AI will continue to shape our world. The question is: will we shape it responsibly?