Data centres drive up big tech’s carbon emissions to a far bigger footprint than previously estimated

Data centres powering artificial intelligence have a much larger carbon footprint than previously estimated, according to a new study cited by AFP.

The study, produced by Allianz Trade, estimates that data centres emitted about 315 million tons of carbon dioxide in 2025. Allianz Trade says this figure is 57% higher than estimates from the International Energy Agency. The report points to rapid growth in data-centre buildouts worldwide as AI workloads consume ever more computing power and electricity.

It also highlights that AI is a rising share of data-centre electricity use: AI already accounts for roughly 15% to 20% of data-centre electricity consumption, and that proportion could climb to around 40% by 2030. Without measures to decarbonize power grids, data-centre emissions would more than double by 2030, the study says, adding to the climate damage estimates associated with AI workloads.

The report further notes that emissions outcomes depend heavily on where the electricity comes from, since the carbon intensity of power varies widely by region. It also estimates that data centres are putting significant pressure on resources, including water needs for cooling.