By Yensy Lopez, Junior Reporter
The use of ChatGPT has become extremely popular, with people using it for TikTok
trends, schoolwork, and even everyday conversations. Many people aren’t aware of the harm
this can do to our environment. “The environmental impact of ChatGPT is 22 times greater than
that of a traditional search engine like Google. A single response from ChatGPT emits 4.41
grams of carbon dioxide, while a Google search emits an estimated 0.2 grams” (Riley G. & Isolina C., 2025). ChatGPT is now a search engine for many people, contributing more to this issue.
AI requires generation of electricity, releasing greenhouse gases and therefore worsening climate change. It is also a fast-paced environment, within a world that wants continuous improvements in technology and faster technology. This contributes to e-waste. The demand for better and more powerful hardware can lead to this electronic waste and can be very harmful if not disposed of properly.
With the rising popularity of ChatGPT and other forms of AI, people are discovering its many functions and possibilities, which are honestly getting out of hand. Many TikTok trends come to mind that involve asking AI, specifically ChatGPT, to create photos for you. Now imagine thousands of people doing this, and asking for multiple photos. It may not seem like much when you’re thinking about it individually, but when you look at the bigger picture, you realize the true damage that can be done.
Another issue with this easily accessible production of fake images is that it is now much easier for people to create fake photos which can be harmful. With this, I’m referring especially to explicit photos. This can turn into a big issue, and with the power of social media it can be very difficult to differentiate a real photo from an AI-generated photo. We often see this problem with people using AI to defame celebrities with explicit photos or videos, that can have a huge effect on people.
AI for academic purposes can be a delicate topic; you must be careful what you’re using it for. AI can provide answers which aren’t correct, so definitely don’t use any form of AI to write entire essays for you. Disinformation is a common issue with AI; making up information, people, or just rambling about a topic not related to what you’re asking. On the other hand, it can be a useful tool when asking for a clearer explanation on a certain topic, or even to correct your grammar and punctuation.
People in general are becoming weirdly dependent on ChatGPT for many everyday things - such as asking random questions, creating grocery lists, creating “emotional connections”, and more. Things that can be easily done without the help of AI. I believe sharing too many personal details with AI just isn’t very smart in general. There are other negative impacts, like AI harming critical thinking skills and creativity. I think everyone needs to be more mindful of how they’re using and accessing AI tools, making sure they’re not overdoing it for unnecessary things.
References
The Piper (Riley G. and Isolina C.): “The harmful impact of AI on our planet”, 2025.