E037 - AI or Not - Masheika Allgood and Pamela Isom

Welcome to "AI or Not," the podcast where we explore the intersection of digital transformation and real-world wisdom, hosted by the accomplished Pamela Isom. With over 25 years of experience guiding leaders in corporate, public, and private sectors, Pamela, the CEO and Founder of IsAdvice & Consulting LLC, is a veteran in successfully navigating the complex realms of artificial intelligence, innovation, cyber issues, governance, data management, and ethical decision-making.

When you turn on your tap and nothing comes out, it's already too late. This eye-opening conversation with AI ethicist Masheika Allgood reveals the hidden environmental crisis lurking within our AI revolution, the massive consumption of drinking water by data centers.

Modern AI data centers are fundamentally different from those of the past. The specialized GPUs powering artificial intelligence generate extreme heat, around 190°F, requiring sophisticated cooling systems that consume millions of gallons of water annually. This isn't recycled or sea water, but drinkable water from the same aquifers that supply our homes and businesses. Most alarming? Many communities remain completely unaware, as tech companies frequently hide water usage behind non-disclosure agreements while openly discussing their electricity needs.

"Water is a finite resource in a way that nothing else on this planet is," explains Allgood, who developed the Data Center Water Consumption Calculator to empower communities. This free tool allows local officials and concerned citizens to estimate water impact before permits are granted. A typical 200-megawatt data center consumes approximately 2,000 acre-feet of water per year, potentially accounting for 10% of a local reservoir's capacity.

The crisis extends beyond traditionally water-stressed regions. Florida, despite its rainfall, faces water scarcity. Phoenix restricts housing development due to water limitations, yet continues approving data centers. Virginia struggles with similar issues. Since water governance happens at the local level, citizens have significant power to influence decisions through municipal meetings and advocacy with officials they know personally.

Have we considered whether technological advancement is worth sacrificing our most essential resource? Visit tapsrundry.com to access the Calculator and presentation materials you can share with local officials. Remember, when it comes to water scarcity, there's no backup plan. By the time you notice the problem, it may be too late to solve it.