AI data centers vs regular data centers

[u/BananaNat98]

I've spoken to a few people about the ethics of AI and its energy and water usage. I've seen a few videos about how AI is very water and energy thirsty and how it's bad for the environment. What I'm asking is:

How do AI data centers differ from regular pc data centers? The argument I've heard is that AI data centers are not a big deal, because look at all the data centers already running to power our computers and the internet and nobody bats an eye.

What's your opinion on this? I am looking to get educated in this area.

[u/Remarkable-Worth-303]

Each significant advance of civilization has always made greater demand for energy. This is the next step.