Any electrically powered technology has a carbon footprint, unless that power is sourced entirely from renewable energy. AI tools are generally powered by large data centres powered by significant electricity, most of which still comes from fossil fuel-heavy grids.
Additionally, AI tools require far more computing power than a conventional web search, roughly 10 times more energy query than a (pre-AI assisted) Google search.
Absolutely not. Greenfleet encourages our supporters to reduce emissions as much as possible, before supporting native reforestation to remove those they can’t avoid. This includes using AI responsibly by assessing when, and when not to use AI-powered tools, can help reduce the emissions generated. Providing a tangible, authentic solution is vital when emissions and fossil fuel remain embedded in our society.
It’s a defensible estimate. Greenfleet’s goal is to make climate action simple, tangible, and authentic, and AI ImpactCover is based on averages to cover most AI users.
Our partner, Cool Planet has considered data published by the AI-providers, peer-reviewed research and used deliberately conservative assumptions, meaning the model is more likely to overstate your footprint than understate it.
There are two elements of Greenfleet’s AI ImpactCover. Firstly, you will directly support the restoration of legally protected native forests to remove your carbon as they grow.
Secondly, a contribution is made to the restoration of waterways in the Strzelecki Nature Link. While water use cannot be directly compensated in the same way as carbon, the support of this project enhances water quality within the Lang Lang River system on Boonwurrung Country in Victoria.