Water & Externalities

AI is thirsty. By 2027, according to the World Economic Forum, AI could account for 1.1 to 1.7 trillion gallons of water withdrawal—a staggering figure that’s more than four to six times Denmark’s annual water withdrawal.

Communities near AI data centers are already feeling the strain. Families. Farmers. Local ecosystems. When AI data centers send the costs of water usage to other users, they are sending ‘externalities’ downstream, shifting costs to others who enjoy none of the benefits. Because many of the data centers force others to absorb one of the costs of a system designed without them in mind.

The idea here isn’t to slow innovation, but rather a call to lead it—responsibly, strategically, and with foresight. Because once trust dries up (much like the water), it’s hard to get back.

The moment demands corporate responsibility and accountability. As we build the future, we need to ensure we’re not draining the present.