Human Existence Is Just as Wasteful as AI Data Centers, Sam Altman Suggests
Decrypt
by Jose Antonio LanzFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, sparked controversy during a speech at the AI Impact Summit in India by comparing human upbringing to the energy efficiency of AI training. He argued that raising humans is far less efficient than operating AI data centers, which have become increasingly energy-efficient over time. While critics, including Indian tech magnate Sridhar Vembu and Reddit users, condemned Altman’s comparison as dehumanizing, he emphasized the need for a rapid shift to cleaner energy sources like nuclear, wind, and solar to address global energy demands.
Altman highlighted that human development requires decades of energy-intensive processes, such as 20 years of life and food consumption, while AI systems are optimized for efficiency. He pointed out that the evolution of humanity over billions of people has also been resource-heavy, yet it ultimately produced individuals with unique value. While some dismissed his comments as reducing humans to mere "cost per output," Altman maintained that improving energy efficiency is critical for both AI and human survival.
The discussion matters deeply for readers in the crypto and web3 communities, where energy consumption is a hot-button issue. Many cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin and Ethereum, face criticism for their high power usage. Altman’s remarks tie into broader debates about sustainability and the ethical use of technology. As the demand for energy-efficient solutions grows, both AI and crypto industries are under pressure to adopt cleaner practices.
Altman also chairs Oklo, a nuclear energy startup, which adds credibility to his call for alternative energy sources. While some view his comments as self-serving, others see them as a wake-up call for the tech industry to prioritize sustainability. The debate over human vs. AI efficiency highlights the broader challenge of balancing technological progress with environmental responsibility. For crypto enthusiasts, this underscores the importance of developing sustainable blockchain solutions that align with global climate goals.
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Originally published on Decrypt on 2/23/2026