The Climate Cost of AI: Why Businesses Must Act Now

At Hiyield, we believe technology should drive positive change – but that requires responsibility.

We are delighted to have launched our 2025 AI and Sustainability Report which reveals the hidden climate cost of artificial intelligence (AI) and offers practical steps businesses can take to reduce its impact.

The Growing Energy Hunger of AI

AI is transforming industries, but its rapid growth comes with soaring energy consumption. Training just one large AI model can use as much energy as several hundred homes in a year.

Our report, developed with the University of Exeter, highlights key concerns:

• Tech giants are struggling to meet net-zero goals due to AI’s rising energy demands.
• 62% of business leaders cite AI’s carbon footprint as their top sustainability issue.
• Only 19% fully trust AI’s output, calling for greater transparency.

Practical Steps for Sustainable AI

AI can be part of the solution when used wisely. Businesses can:

• Conduct Carbon Audits: Assess AI’s environmental impact.
• Choose Energy-Efficient Tools: Opt for renewables-powered data centres.
• Optimise AI Use: Focus on high-impact, essential applications.
• Advocate for Sustainable Policies: Support climate-aligned AI development.

Matt Ville, Founder and CTO says:

“While AI poses challenges, it also holds immense potential to transform businesses and daily life, paving the way for a more sustainable future.”

Ready to make AI more sustainable? Discover more insights and practical recommendations in our full report.