AI's Growing Carbon Footprint: Complex Models Emit Staggering Emissions

Jun 22, 2025
CNN
Article image for AI's Growing Carbon Footprint: Complex Models Emit Staggering Emissions

Summary

Powerful generative AI models driving innovation emit staggering carbon emissions, up to 50 times more than simpler models, with complex queries generating 6 times higher emissions, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable AI development amid rapid technological progress.

Key Points

  • Generative AI models consume significant energy, up to 10 times more than a regular Google search.
  • Complex questions produce up to 6 times more carbon emissions than concise answers.
  • More advanced AI models with higher reasoning abilities emit up to 50 times more carbon than simpler models.

Tags

Read Original Article