The AI data center e-waste problem is huge — and getting bigger
A Basel Action Network report projects AI data center e-waste could reach 395-617 million metric tons by 2050, far exceeding prior estimates.
The nonprofit Basel Action Network (BAN) published a report arguing AI e-waste has been vastly underestimated because it counts all data center infrastructure, not just servers and GPUs. BAN projects 8.6-13.1 million metric tons of AI-related equipment retired annually, totaling 395-617 million metric tons between 2025 and 2050, based on roughly 70,000 tons per gigawatt and a projected 219GW of capacity by 2030. Less than a quarter of the 68.3 million tons of e-waste generated yearly worldwide is formally collected and recycled, with informal disposal exposing workers and children to toxins like lead and chromium.
- Prior AI e-waste studies counting only servers and GPUs missed about 87 percent of data center infrastructure
- Global e-waste is projected to triple to 211 million metric tons yearly by 2050, with AI contributing 15-20 percent
- BAN's 'AI Waste Contagion' category includes telecom infrastructure and devices obsoleted early by AI advances
- The US has not ratified the Basel Convention limiting hazardous waste trade
- Vendors
- McKinsey
- Products
- Basel Action Network
- Organizations
- World Health Organization
From the original article
3 min read at theverge.com
E-waste from the AI boom has been vastly underestimated, a new report warns. By 2050, it could become enough trash to fill 23 million shipping containers - roughly enough 40-foot containers to circle the world six times if lined up in a row.
By Justine Calma · theverge.com
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