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Discussions around artificial intelligence (AI) take a new turning point with the recent revelations of the former CEO of Google, Eric Schmidt. In a captivating podcast, it highlights an often neglected truth: the real limit of AI lies in the energy and water resources available on our planet. While the development of superintelligence attracts all attention, it is crucial to look at the environmental consequences of this frantic technological quest.
The superintelligence, the new grail of the AI
The race for superintelligence has become the new objective of technology giants. All wish to be the first to cross the threshold of general artificial intelligence (AG). Companies compete in ingenuity And investments to develop ever more sophisticated models, capable of carrying out complex tasks that go beyond human capacities. This ambition is not without consequence, because it feeds an intense competition to attract the best world talents.
Companies like Meta do not hesitate to offer very high salaries to poach experts from competing firms such as Openai. This talent hunt is part of a strategy aimed at being the first to dominate the AG market. However, even in the event of a significant breakthrough, the limits imposed by natural resources should not be underestimated. The rise of this technology could well be slowed down by the energy and water issues.
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Pressure energy resources
The energy consumption of data centers and infrastructure necessary for the development of AI is titanic. Electricity needs increase exponentially As AI models become more complex. Servers operate at full speed to process colossal data volumes, which exacerbates energy demand.
According to certain estimates, the technological sector could represent a significant part of global electricity consumption in the coming decades. Faced with this situation, it becomes urgent to rethink the energy sources used. The adoption of more sustainable solutions and investment in renewable energies appear as essential avenues to reduce the carbon footprint of AI.
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A major water challenge
In addition to energy, water is a critical resource for the development of AI. The data centers consume huge amounts of water to cool the servers in continuous operation. This intensive water consumption poses a major problem in a context of overall water stress.
The regions already faced with a water shortage may see their situation worsen with the expansion of technological infrastructure. It then becomes imperative to find innovative solutions to optimize the use of this precious resource. The search for more effective cooling technologies and the reuse of water in the industrial cycle are promising avenues to explore.
Towards a responsible and sustainable AI
The awareness of the limits imposed by natural resources could well constitute a turning point in the development of AI. Sector players must now integrate these considerations into their development strategies. It is crucial to promote an ethical and sustainable approach of AI, which takes into account its environmental impact.
Governments, companies and researchers are called upon to collaborate to set up regulatory executives encouraging responsible innovation. This transition to a greener and lasting AI could not only preserve our planet, but also ensure the sustainability of this revolutionary technology. Faced with these challenges, are we ready to rethink our relationship with artificial intelligence to make it an ally of tomorrow?
This article is based on verified sources and the assistance of editorial technologies.
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