05/29/2026
This month, AI was met with boos at commencement speeches across the country, signaling a growing discomfort among young people with the technology’s rapid rise and real-world impacts.
Beyond the classroom, AI is fueling massive growth in data centers that consume enormous amounts of electricity and water, placing added strain on communities and the climate. Artificial intelligence systems are thirsty, consuming as much as 500 milliliters of water – a single-serving water bottle – for each short conversation a user has with the GPT-3 version of OpenAI’s ChatGPT system. They use roughly the same amount of water to draft a 100-word email message.
The best way to protect our natural resources and communities? Volunteer, lobby, or join local efforts with organizations already doing so. Get involved, and make sure your voice is heard!
We’d love to hear your thoughts below. 💬