Artificial Intelligence chatbots like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Microsoft’s Copilot, and China’s Deepseek have become an integral part of our daily interactions, offering instant answers, writing assistance and brainstorming support.

As we increasingly turn to these digital assistants for even the most trivial tasks, I find myself asking: what is the cost? Not just to our ability to think for ourselves, but also to the planet?

I previously wrote about the environmental effects of AI computing, and now I find myself considering what else it’s affecting.

The cognitive cost

Relying on AI for basic thought processes like generating ideas, crafting email responses, or making simple life decisions raises concerns about cognitive dependence.

A study by MIT Media Lab and OpenAI found that users who frequently sought ChatGPT’s help for advice, explanations, and brainstorming became more emotionally dependent on it. The more they leaned on AI, the less confident they became in their own decisions.

Over the long term, this cognitive outsourcing could have adverse effects, especially on creativity and problem-solving. Two skills that are hard-earned.

The environmental toll

Beyond cognitive concerns, using AI chatbots comes with a significant environmental cost. Each seemingly small interaction, like asking ChatGPT to draft an email or suggest a book, relies on vast computing power housed in energy-hungry data centres.

These AI models require immense amounts of electricity and water for cooling, further straining global resources.

In my previous article, The Hidden Costs of AI, I highlighted the serious environmental impact of AI. Here are some standout points:

  • Google reported using 5.6 billion gallons (that’s 21.2 billion litres) of water in 2022, while ChatGPT alone is estimated to use 500 millilitres of water for every 5 to 50 user prompts.
  • Data centres, the backbone of AI, account for about 1% of global electricity demand—a figure that continues to rise as AI adoption grows.
  • AI hardware relies on rare earth metals, the mining of which damages ecosystems and contributes to pollution.

These statistics make it clear that every trivial request to AI chatbots isn’t as harmless as it seems. The more we offload small, everyday tasks to AI, the more we contribute to an unsustainable cycle of energy consumption and environmental degradation.

We need to find balance

Like with all technology use, it’s important to adopt a more mindful approach. AI is an incredibly powerful tool, but moderation is key. Yes, it can enhance productivity and innovation, but mindless overuse can weaken human cognition and harm the environment.

Instead of outsourcing every minor task, ask yourself: is this something I can think through on my own? Can I draft this message without AI’s help?

I also believe the responsibility shouldn’t rest solely on the user – companies developing AI must acknowledge and address these hidden costs.

Sustainable technology development should be a priority, with a focus on reducing energy and water consumption while ensuring that human cognitive skills are not eroded by over-reliance.

The rise of AI chatbots is transforming the way we think, work, and communicate. But as we embrace their convenience, we must also consider the consequences – both for our own mental faculties and for the planet.

It should be a tool to augment human intelligence, not replace it.