First cast
What’s happening in the world of game-fishing
PROS AND CONS OF AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming our lives and may have a profoundly positive effect on rivers and fish, but a recent UK Government announcement of an ‘AI Growth Zone’ in Oxfordshire has prompted concern about the enormous quantity of water, up to 19 million litres a day, that may be required to cool a single AI data centre.
The use of tap-quality water and chemicals for cooling could have a damaging effect on already over-abstracted rivers and aquifers.
Green Party leader Adrian Ramsey said, “There is a green elephant in the room with neither government nor business truly addressing the environmental impacts of AI.
The [Government’s] action plan does not address crucial questions of environmental sustainability.”
Tech firms have been criticised for not reporting the scale of their water use.
To meet demand for water, regulator Ofwat has approved further planning for new reservoirs, in Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire, Hampshire and near the AI Growth Zone in Oxfordshire.
Despite his concerns, Mr Ramsey welcomed the potential AI has to aid research and innovation.