Data Centres: Whose Thirst Comes First?
About this episode
The episode discusses the expansion of AI data centres and the associated environmental and societal trade-offs.
AI data centres are expanding across the UK and around the world. Tech giants and governments see them as essential infrastructure for future prosperity; the engines of economic growth, scientific innovation, improved healthcare and national security. Advocates believe they will bring about the next technological leap forward for humanity. But there are always trade-offs. Critics point to the immediate environmental costs; the demand for electricity, water and land. They question whether the promised rewards justify the sacrifices, particularly for local populations who face the disruption of new developments while the economic benefits go elsewhere. Are we, as a society, being swept along by an AI 'arms race' we didn’t consent to? Are we right to put faith in tech billionaires who prophesy a future of progress and human flourishing, or are we simply enabling more consumption? (Every video of Elon Musk as Austin Powers drinks around 4 litres of water). And even if AI promises to solve climate change and eradicate disease, how much are we willing to place on that bet today? Chair: Michael Buerk Panel: Giles Fraser, Mona Siddiqui, Andrew Copson and Ella Whelan. Witnesses: Owen…
People in this episode
Host: Michael Buerk
Guests: Giles Fraser, Mona Siddiqui, Andrew Copson, Ella Whelan
Topics covered
- AI data centres
- environmental impact
- economic growth
- technological innovation
- local disruption
- societal consent
Keywords
- data centres
- AI
- environment
- electricity demand
- economic benefits
- local populations
- technological progress
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: BBC Radio 4, AI, Elon Musk
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