India, Oct. 8 -- A new assessment by Basel Action Network estimates that 395 million to 617 million tonnes of AI-related electronic equipment could be retired between 2025 and 2050.

By 2030, around 8.6 million to 13.1 million tonnes of AI-linked equipment could become waste every year, according to the assessment.

BAN says earlier estimates focused mainly on servers and GPUs, while its assessment includes the wider physical infrastructure of AI data centres, including power, cooling and networking systems.

The report raises concerns over hazardous e-waste, shortened equipment lifespans, data security risks and the possibility of discarded AI equipment moving to countries with weaker recycling oversight.

The rapid expansion of artifici...