Published: 24 July 2024
The pervasive rise of cloud computing and generative AI, and the vast quantities of water needed to cool the hardware associated with these new technologies, are changing how we consume this vital resource. IT leaders must build a resilient water strategy into their core business and AI sourcing if they want to thrive.
This research presents a disruptive perspective, suggesting that businesses managing water resources, especially through technology and IT, can gain a competitive advantage. Its findings and advice should therefore be treated with caution.
Emerging technology is water thirsty. Worldwide demand for AI could be responsible for withdrawing between 4.2 and 6.6 billion cubic meters of water by 2027 — almost half of the United Kingdom’s annual water consumption.
The water crisis is creating a global situation that is spiraling out of control. The UN predicts that 6% of GDP will be lost to water scarcity by 2050.
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