Research indicates that the contribution of artificial intelligence (AI) to global greenhouse gas emissions remains minimal, despite concerns about rising energy consumption and its potential impact on climate change. As AI technologies advance, they may offer both environmental and economic benefits.

An analysis conducted by experts from the University of Waterloo and the Georgia Institute of Technology examined the U.S. economy and assessed the scale of AI adoption across various industries. The study aimed to determine how energy consumption and emissions might change if current rates of AI implementation continue. According to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, 83% of the country's economy still relies on fossil fuels—oil, coal, and natural gas—which emit greenhouse gases when burned. It was found that AI-related energy consumption in the U.S. is comparable to the total energy use of Iceland. However, this increase is too small to significantly affect emissions at the national or global level.

The growth in energy consumption associated with AI will not be uniform. The largest increases are expected in regions where electricity is generated to power data centers. In some areas, electricity production and emissions could double, which may have a noticeable impact on local communities. However, on a national and global scale, the effect will remain minor. The study did not examine in detail the impact on local economies in regions with a high concentration of data centers, but the overall findings point to a low level of influence.

To assess AI's impact, the researchers analyzed different economic sectors, job types, and the proportion of roles that could be automated using AI. There are plans to expand the analysis to other countries in the future to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how AI adoption affects energy consumption and emissions worldwide.

The study also notes that AI can be used to develop environmentally friendly technologies and improve existing solutions, opening up additional opportunities to reduce negative environmental impacts.