Google’s latest environmental report reveals that its greenhouse gas emissions in 2023 were 48% higher than in 2019. The company attributes this increase to the growing energy demands of its data centers, which have been amplified by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) technology.
AI-based services require significantly more computer power and electricity than standard online activity, leading to concerns about the environmental impact of this technology. While Google aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2030, it acknowledges that addressing emissions may become more challenging as they continue to integrate AI into their products.
