Climate Activists’ Lawsuits Risk Slowing US AI Development

Artificial intelligence is poised to add around $20 trillion to the global economy by 2030, but the U.S. risks falling behind without sufficient AI innovation and infrastructure, including data centers powered by affordable energy, which still relies heavily on fossil fuels. Climate activists opposing fossil fuels and data center construction have drawn criticism, with some labeling their claims about climate change as exaggerated, while others acknowledge growing evidence that human-driven climate anomalies may be real. The Trump administration continues to support fossil fuel industries by loosening reporting requirements for greenhouse gas emissions, even as satellite technology independently tracks emissions from power plants and refineries. At the same time, government policies such as road user charges on electric and hybrid vehicles suggest a mixed approach to climate change, with some leaders perceived as indifferent or denying its urgency. Despite efforts by the Trump administration to undermine clean energy and electric vehicle incentives, global markets, particularly in China and Europe, are advancing rapidly in these technologies, potentially leaving the U.S. economy behind if it does not adapt. The debate over climate change and energy policy remains highly polarized, affecting the nation’s competitiveness in AI and clean technology sectors.