Labour MP Zack Polanski is to chair a new cross-party review into the environmental impact of artificial intelligence datacentres, the party announced on Friday.
Review Scope and Aims
The review will examine the energy and water use of datacentres, as well as their impact on local communities and the grid. It will also consider how the UK can attract green investment in the sector while meeting climate targets.
Polanski, who sits on the Commons science and technology committee, said the rapid growth of AI posed "urgent questions" about sustainability. He said the review would bring together experts, industry leaders and campaigners to produce "practical recommendations" for government.
Cross-Party Support
The review is backed by MPs from the Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Green parties. It is expected to hold its first evidence session in October and report before the end of the year.
A Labour spokesperson said the party recognised the economic potential of AI but was committed to ensuring its development did not come at the expense of the environment.
