Salher solutions to reduce the water footprint of artificial intelligence
Beyond its seemingly digital nature, artificial intelligence relies on a vast physical infrastructure with a measurable environmental impact: mining, energy consumption, and an increasing demand for water. Salher provides sustainable water treatment solutions to manage the water consumption associated with AI technologies.
Behind every AI model lies a complex supply chain that begins with the extraction of critical minerals such as copper and lithium. These processes involve intensive water use, as well as the generation of waste and direct impacts on ecosystems and local communities.
The wastewater generated by the mining industry is typically loaded with heavy metals, sulfates, and extreme acidity (low pH). To treat this type of industrial wastewater, Salher recommends physicochemical processes such as clarification and sedimentation, which remove suspended solids and heavy metals through coagulation and flocculation. Solutions include Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) systems like VESPA and XCORPIO, as well as neutralization and precipitation systems designed to adjust pH levels and remove dissolved metals.
For projects requiring higher water quality standards, Salher offers advanced treatment technologies such as biological treatment systems, reverse osmosis, nanofiltration, and ion exchange. These solutions are designed to remove salts, dissolved metals, and chemical contaminants, ensuring compliance with strict discharge or reuse requirements.
In addition, Salher develops tailor-made solutions incorporating water recirculation through evaporation and crystallization systems. These advanced processes enable zero liquid discharge (ZLD), allowing water recovery and the generation of dry solid waste. This approach facilitates the reuse of process water and minimizes freshwater extraction.
On the other hand, the physical backbone of artificial intelligence lies in data centers.
hese facilities are essential for data storage and processing and require continuous cooling systems to operate efficiently. In many cases, these systems rely on cooling towers that use water to dissipate the heat generated by servers. This results in:
- High water consumption, often in water-stressed regions
- The need for high-quality water to prevent scaling, corrosion, and biological growth
- The generation of wastewater that must be treated before discharge or reuse
In recent years, Salher has experienced a significant increase in demand for water treatment solutions linked to data centers across Europe. This trend is driven by the rapid growth of digitalization, cloud computing, and more recently, the expansion of artificial intelligence.
Optimizing water consumption, enabling water reuse, and ensuring proper wastewater treatment are now key factors in the design of these facilities. The goal is not to limit the use of AI technologies, but to raise awareness among users and companies about the importance of responsible water management—balancing technological development with the sustainable use of natural resources.
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