Amazon Web Services disclosed that its data centers used 2.5 billion gallons of water globally last year, about 5% of Seattle's annual consumption. The company claims higher efficiency than peers, but critics demand more transparency.
- AWS used 0.12 liters of water per kilowatt-hour, down from 0.15 in 2024. - The industry average is 0.84 liters per kilowatt-hour, per an academic estimate.
- Amazon aims to return more water than it withdraws by 2030. - Local concerns in Gilroy, Santa Clara County, highlight the need for clearer data.
The disclosure includes both evaporated and discharged water, making comparisons complex. Communities are urged to evaluate costs and benefits of data center developments.