Datacentres are a ticking time bomb (www.theguardian.com)

The rapid expansion of datacentres, driven primarily by the surge in artificial intelligence (AI), poses significant risks for both the environment and the economy. With over 10,000 active datacentres globally—set to increase by 3.5 times at a projected cost of $7 trillion—Australia is witnessing a significant influx, with 286 active or planned centres. This growth is not just about infrastructure; it raises serious concerns regarding energy consumption and carbon emissions, particularly as Australian datacentres are expected to triple energy and water usage by 2030. While proponents highlight the potential of AI to drive benefits in various sectors, the lack of a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis means the negative impacts are often overlooked, contributing to climate crisis challenges. Moreover, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority has highlighted the increased cybersecurity risks associated with AI, urging the use of AI tools to mitigate such threats ironically. While these datacentres can enhance business investment, most equipment is imported, leaving negligible local economic impact post-construction. As Australia grapples with the balance between leveraging AI for productivity and addressing the environmental costs, the call for a strategic approach is clear; the government must ensure technology advancements serve the public good rather than disproportionately benefit tech giants.