Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu recently launched a sharp critique against major technology companies. He targeted Google, Microsoft, and Amazon directly. Vembu claimed these tech giants have completely abandoned their sustainability promises. This shift happened during the rapid scaling of artificial intelligence.
Sustainability Disappears from Big Tech Vocabulary
Sharing his thoughts on social media platform X, Vembu made a powerful statement. He wrote that sustainability has vanished from the vocabulary of Big Tech. This disappearance occurred in the frantic rush to develop and deploy AI. According to Vembu, this move reveals their true level of conviction about climate change.
"It was always part of their virtue-signaling, nothing more," Vembu asserted in his post. He believes their previous environmental commitments were merely for show. The intense focus on AI development has pushed these concerns aside.
India's Different Path Forward
Vembu presented a contrasting vision for India. He stated the country has no option but to pursue an energy-efficient approach to AI. He expressed strong belief that achieving sustainable AI development is entirely possible. For Vembu, climate change transcends political debate.
"I don't view climate change as a political issue," he explained. He sees it as part of a broader question about humanity living in harmony with nature.
Rising Power Demands Spark Political Concern
The Zoho founder also highlighted the AI boom's escalating electricity requirements. He specifically commented on rising power prices in the United States. These increases are largely driven by new AI data centers consuming massive energy.
Vembu quoted Microsoft's recent five-point plan addressing public anger over this issue. At a Washington event, Microsoft President Brad Smith made specific promises to concerned communities.
"Our data centre won't lead to an increase in your electricity prices if you are a neighbour in the community," Smith announced. He added that while they cannot control all inflation sources, they can ensure their own operations don't raise local bills.
Vembu noted this has become a significant political issue in America. He referenced former President Donald Trump asking Big Tech to act responsibly with data center plans. Microsoft has publicly pledged cooperation with these concerns.
The debate around AI's environmental impact continues to intensify globally. Vembu's comments add a prominent voice from India's technology sector calling for greater responsibility.
