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UN scientists warn that AI data centers are rapidly increasing global water stress as demand for generative AI expands. A UNU-INWEH report projects data center water use to rise from 4.5 trillion liters in 2025 to 9.3 trillion liters by 2030. AI facilities consume water through cooling systems, electricity generation, and semiconductor manufacturing. Many centers are located in already water-stressed regions, creating competition with households and agriculture. Tech firms are testing closed-loop and liquid-cooling systems, but regulators are urged to control data center placement and resource use.
Thursday, 4 June, 2026