Abu Dhabi:Warnings from the Basel Action Network (BAN) highlight the potential for a significant increase in electronic waste due to the rapid growth of artificial intelligence. A pioneering analysis projects that up to 617 million tonnes of AI-driven electronic equipment might be retired between 2025 and 2050.

According to Emirates News Agency , the upper estimate of this e-waste would require approximately 23 million 40-foot shipping containers, which could encircle the Earth about six times if placed consecutively.

The anticipated waste comprises computer servers, graphics processing units (GPUs), networking and cooling equipment, power and backup systems, and telecommunications infrastructure. The rapid advancement of AI technology could also lead to personal devices becoming obsolete more quickly.

BAN has expressed concern over the hazardous substances found in electronic waste, including highly persistent chemicals, which complicate safe disposal and recycling. This poses significant risks to human health and the environment.

Jim Puckett, founder and Chief of Strategic Direction of BAN, noted that discussions on AI's environmental impact have mainly focused on electricity, carbon, and water usage, neglecting the fate of the physical infrastructure supporting the technology. He warned that without proper planning, the AI surge could unleash a deluge of electronic waste, exacerbating the world's toxic waste challenges.