In episode 690, Megan chats to Danielle Madden about how generative AI uses significant environmental resources and how content creators can use the technology more ethically.

Danielle Madden founded Project Meal Plan in 2016 after spending too many lunch breaks searching for mediocre food while working her office job. Her educational background includes a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, and hands-on training as a Seattle Urban Nature Guide. Danielle loves being prepared (especially with food), and is usually the first one to arrive at a gathering with a homemade dish to share. At Project Meal Plan, Danielle focuses on make-ahead food and sharing tools to help others plan their own meals.

In this episode, you’ll learn how generative AI works, how to understand its environmental impact, and how to implement sustainable practices in business.

Key points discussed include:

- Generative AI Uses Significant Resources: Data centers consume substantial water and electricity through complex cooling processes.

- Water Consumption is Substantial: ChatGPT uses approximately 500 milliliters of fresh water per 20-50 questions.

- Environmental Impact Varies: Different AI platforms have varying resource consumption levels, though specifics are not transparent.

- Ethical Usage Matters: Content creators should critically evaluate when and how they use AI tools.

- Prompt Writing is Key: More specific, detailed prompts can reduce unnecessary AI usage and resource consumption.

- Fact-Checking is Essential: Always review and verify AI-generated content for accuracy.

- Small Actions Add Up: Implementing sustainable practices in business can create meaningful environmental impact.

- Transparency Helps: Consider creating a sustainability policy that acknowledges your commitment to responsible technology use.

Connect with Danielle Madden

Website | Instagram