some AI boosters claim that AI doesn't actually use a lot of fresh water.

this is lies and bullshit. AI training and serving uses a fucking ton of water for data centre cooling that then isn't available for other uses.

here's some details with numbers https://web.archive.org/web/20230912035430/https://www.kcci.com/article/ai-technology-behind-chatgpt-built-in-west-des-moines-iowa-microsoft/45081445

yes there will be a Pivot to AI on this, gathering more number-bearing sources