Robert Bikel Explores the Environmental and Social Impact of AI in U.S. News & World Report

Generative artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming work, the economy, and society, but it carries significant environmental and social costs, according to Robert Bikel, director of the Social, Ethical, and Environmental Responsibility (SEER) program at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School.

In a recent U.S. News & World Report op-ed, Bikel calls for a clear-eyed look at AI’s growing energy demands, environmental footprint, and potential social consequences. Citing research from the Electric Power Research Institute and the International Energy Agency, he notes that AI queries can consume up to ten times more energy than traditional online searches, with U.S. data centers potentially accounting for 20% of national electricity use by 2032.

Beyond environmental concerns, Bikel highlights potential labor displacement and the erosion of human decision-making skills as AI adoption accelerates. He also challenges tech industry claims that efficiency gains will offset AI’s environmental impact, citing historical trends like Jevons' paradox, which suggest that increased efficiency can paradoxically drive higher resource consumption.

Bikel emphasizes the need for greater transparency, accountability, and the integration of clean energy infrastructure as AI continues to expand. He stresses that relying on AI alone to solve the problems it creates is not sufficient, and that meaningful human oversight and responsible planning are essential for mitigating its environmental and social effects.

Read the full op-ed here.