What does your AI use really cost the planet?

Skip the scary headlines. Get a clear estimate of the energy, water and carbon behind your AI use — in seconds.

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Describe any AI task in your own words. We estimate its footprint for you.

See what your everyday AI prompts add up to.

Making images, video or audio? Estimate an asset instead

Latest 2025 disclosures: ~0.3 Wh per AI text query. That's 10× more efficient than 2023 estimates. See the methodology.

Scale reference: ~50 typical AI prompts use the same electricity as one smartphone charge (15 Wh).

Your AI footprint depends on three things: model size, task type, and data centre location. The calculator estimates all three.

Figures from first-party 2025-26 disclosures and the sourced references in the "Understanding AI's Environmental Footprint" section below.

Understanding AI's Environmental Footprint

Learn how generative AI affects our planet, based on the best available first-party disclosures.

Tips for Sustainable AI Usage

Now that you understand what drives AI's environmental impact, here's how to reduce it. These strategies work across all AI tools and use cases.

Optimise Your Prompts
Write clear, concise prompts to get the information you need with fewer iterations, reducing computational load.
Choose Smaller Models When Possible
For simpler tasks, smaller, more efficient models can be just as effective whilst using fewer resources.
Be Mindful of Task Intensity
Text generation typically uses far less energy than generating images or videos. Use intensive tasks judiciously.
Consider Location & Provider
Support AI services hosted in regions with cleaner energy grids and by companies committed to renewable energy.
Minimise Redundant Usage
Avoid unnecessary AI interactions. Think if the task truly requires AI or if a simpler tool would suffice.