Air pollution from AI could surpass that of all the cars in California

Massive data centers power large language models but produce fine particles linked to asthma, cancers, and premature deaths.

The data centers powering the AI industry are fueling higher levels of dangerous air pollution, according to new research. In a paper titled The Unpaid Toll: Quantifying the Public Health Impact of AI, scientists say this pollution could lead to up to 1,300 premature deaths each year by 2030. On top of that, the public health costs—ranging from treating cancer and asthma to covering missed work and school days—are estimated to be hitting around $20 billion annually.