AI And Water Systems: Conservation Tool Or Resource Drain?

AI is becoming an integral part of everyday life; from the workplace and education, to the tools we use and the questions we ask daily. One of AI's newest applications relates to water conservation. While many regions globally face water scarcity, South Africa ranks among the top 30 driest countries due to low rainfall and worsening factors such as climate change, rapid population growth and poor water management. Given that approximately 79% of South Africa's land is utilised for agriculture, AI could potentially play a pivotal role in securing the country's water future.

Recent policy developments indicate that the South African government is increasingly aware of the strain AI infrastructure can place on national resources. In May 2024, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies published a National Policy on Cloud and Data, urging data centres to reduce their reliance on the national electricity and water grids. While not yet legally binding, the