Managers ignore the power guzzler in the data center
AI data centers consume ever-increasing amounts of energy and water. However, many European executives are ignoring this development. In German companies, for example, the associated environmental risks have so far caused little concern. This is the finding of a recent AI survey.
Every month, technology consulting firm Expleo publishes its AI sentiment barometer, «Expleo AI Pulse.» This is based on a survey conducted in Germany, the United Kingdom, and France. It provides representative snapshots of sentiment regarding the use of artificial intelligence in companies.
«Artificial intelligence requires a lot of resources, »The impact on the environment is often ignored,« says Dr. Yusuf Erdogan, Country Lead Digital & Technology at Expleo Germany. »Our survey reveals this discrepancy: although the ecological footprint is growing, awareness of this is not yet reaching many boardrooms."
The main question in the latest Expleo AI Pulse survey focuses on the environmental impact of AI technologies. Only 13 percent of executives said they were «very concerned,» while another 29 percent were «somewhat concerned.» This shows that a clear majority currently consider the environmental impact of AI to be a low risk. German managers are particularly relaxed about this issue: only 30 percent of them are concerned, which is the lowest figure in the comparison. In France, the proportion of those concerned is 44 percent, and in the UK it is as high as 55 percent.
The advantages of using AI outweigh the disadvantages
At the same time, the survey shows that German executives overwhelmingly view the benefits of AI for their own companies in a positive light. 70 percent see primarily advantages for their business, while only 14 percent place greater emphasis on the risks. France is more cautious, with 61 percent, while British managers are particularly optimistic (75 percent).
According to Yusuf Erdogan, many companies are currently in a transitional phase: «There are often numerous pilot projects already in place, but there is still a lack of clear standards behind them. With increasing practical experience, it will become clear where AI creates sustainable added value. Traditionally, British companies tend to be more experimental in this area.»
Stable general sentiment toward AI
Despite differing perceptions, the general mood toward AI remains consistently positive. At 67 points, the European AI Pulse Sentiment Score in November is virtually unchanged from the previous month. The United Kingdom leads the ranking with 70 points, followed by Germany with 67 points and France with 64 points.
According to Expleo manager Erdogan, a strong commitment to AI technology is essential for a successful business future. However, the industry must also take sustainability into account: «Responsible AI means combining environmental, regulatory, and ethical responsibility with clear business models. This balancing act will determine success or failure in the market in the future.»
Source: Expleo
This article originally appeared on m-q.ch - https://www.m-q.ch/de/manager-ignorieren-den-stromfresser-im-rechenzentrum/
