Recalibrating global artificial intelligence e-waste estimates

• By 2030, AI servers could generate 131.0–224.8 kilotons of e-waste per year. • AI systems may contribute less to global e-waste than previously anticipated. • The gap highlights the need for supply-chain data and realistic AI server lifespans. • 2030 AI e-waste could still match Denmark, Norway, or Austria’s 2022 e-waste. • Substantial AI e-waste persists, underscoring the need for data center transparency.