30/09/25 09:09:54 View: 0
AI is helping businesses and individuals save time and increase productivity. However, behind each command sent to ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude, there is a data center running with thousands of GPU chips consuming electricity, cooling with water, and connected to a global network.
In other words, an AI command is not "free" for the environment. The hidden costs are energy, water, and carbon emissions. If we keep refining the same prompt multiple times every day, the accumulated environmental cost becomes significant.
Data for better understanding:
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For an average text command:
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Gemini (Google): approximately 0.24 Wh of electricity, emits 0.03 gCO₂, uses 0.26 ml of water.
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ChatGPT (GPT-4o): estimated at around 0.3 Wh of electricity.
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These numbers may seem small, but for 1 million commands → approximately 300 kWh, which is the electricity consumption of a household in one month.
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Additionally, each 0.3 Wh of electricity could be equivalent to 0.03–0.21 gCO₂ depending on the "cleanliness" of the energy source.
Thus, one AI command = a tangible environmental cost. More usage, more corrections = more emissions.
Why does AI usage behavior matter?
It’s like every time we type a prompt, it’s like starting a motorcycle and going 100 meters. If we don’t prepare well and keep going back and forth, the fuel consumption will increase drastically. AI is similar:
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Vague prompt → AI gives incorrect responses → need to run again.
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No length limit → AI generates unnecessarily long text → consumes tokens, uses more electricity.
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Choosing an overly powerful model for a simple task → like using a truck to carry a bag of vegetables.
Therefore, thinking carefully before typing a command is an eco-friendly action: saving time, costs, and reducing emissions.
Principles of Responsible AI Usage
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Clear goal: Specify exactly what you need, for whom, and in what format.
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Provide sufficient context: Give data, conditions, and constraints upfront.
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Limit output: Request specific word count or number of bullet points.
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Choose the right model: Simple tasks → small models. Complex tasks → large models.
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Avoid multimedia waste: Only ask for images/slides when absolutely necessary.
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Save good prompts: Reuse them, don’t "reinvent the wheel."
Using AI effectively is not only about cost-saving but also about being responsible towards the environment and society. Each carefully crafted prompt helps reduce 1–2 rounds of revisions, thus cutting down on energy, water, and CO₂ emissions. For businesses, this could be equivalent to turning off hundreds of lights every day.
Companies should train their staff with a "green prompt" library: improving efficiency while reinforcing ESG commitments in the digital age.
Author:
KisStartup
