Scottish data centres powering AI already using enough water to fill 27 million bottles a year

Scottish data centres powering AI are consuming large amounts of tap water, equivalent to filling 27 million bottles a year, as revealed by BBC News. With AI technologies like large language models (LLMs) requiring vast amounts of energy and water for cooling systems, the environmental impact is a concern. As AI usage continues to grow, Scottish Water is urging data centres to explore more sustainable alternatives to using tap water, such as closed-loop cooling systems or treated effluent from wastewater treatment works. Experts warn that data centres' carbon footprint and water consumption could have significant environmental consequences, prompting calls for increased transparency and measures to ensure sustainability in the industry.