AI boom fuels demand for 'forever chemicals' as major producers plan to increase output

As the artificial intelligence boom increases demand for forever chemicals, their persistence in nature and the consequences of exposure are raising heightened concerns.

Troublingly, almost every one of the 10 largest PFAS producers intends to expand output.

Here's what to know

In a YouTube video, host Justin Pack of Eco Bits (@EcoBitsOfficial) explained how PFAS, often called "forever chemicals," are used in computing facilities and chips supporting AI. 

AI chip manufacturing is another use for the liquid-cooling systems that help support growing computing demand. Some of these systems use PFAS in engineered, heat-absorbing fluids in which servers are submerged, connecting the chemicals to the expansion of computing power.

Pack cited an investor analysis indicating that PFAS may play a role in up to 1,000 separate semiconductor production stages. He also cited a survey that revealed nearly all of the major PFAS producers are looking to increase production.

More background

People can be exposed to PFAS through food, water, and soil where these persistent chemicals accumulate, Pack explained, adding that blood testing has found detectable PFAS levels in over 99% of the global population. 

While more study on the impact of PFAS on the human body is needed, the chemicals have been linked to reproductive issues, developmental impacts in children, increased cancer risk, and compromised immune systems, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. 

Of course, data centers are nothing new, and one commenter tried to point to their necessity as a defense. 

"You do realize your social media page wholly depends on data centers to exist?" they wrote.

That argument drew strong pushback, as multiple commenters pointed out distinctions between the computing needs of regular data centers and AI ones.

"AI data centers and normal data centers are 2 completely different things," someone responded. "Maybe if you stopped using ChatGPT to think you would actually realize this."

That response sparked even more back-and-forth, with one person providing a detailed analysis.

"Social media is mostly data storage whereas AI requires a huge amount of processing," they argued. "Because of this social media has a relatively low energy consumption and can suffice with air cooling whereas AI consumes huge amounts of energy and needs liquid cooling."

In any case, the video's argument about PFAS wasn't really in dispute.

What can be done?

Tap-water filtration was among the everyday steps Pack recommended for people seeking to lower their PFAS exposure. For cookware, Pack suggested stainless steel or cast iron. Avoiding fast food was another recommendation.

Pack directed his call for restrictions on PFAS use to government officials and businesses, rather than focusing solely on individual changes.

"AI's environmental footprint isn't just electricity and water; it may also include a new wave of chemicals designed to essentially last forever," he declared.

Where can I learn more?

PFAS use is one of several environmental concerns surrounding the growth of AI data centers. 

• Campaigners warn the AI data center boom could drive a PFAS production surge.

• In Texas and New Mexico, AI data centers threaten costly climate plans.

• New Jersey's largest planned AI data center faces accusations of running 45 unpermitted generators.

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