Vals analysis: open-weight models performing multi-stage tasks, like building a web app, can have an environmental impact 10K times greater than simple queries (Bloomberg)

According to a Vals analysis, open-weight models performing multi-stage tasks, such as building a web app, can have an environmental impact 10,000 times greater than simple queries. Benchmarker Vals AI found that these complex tasks require models to use exponentially more energy or water compared to straightforward queries, highlighting a significant environmental concern associated with advanced AI applications.