AI Data Centers & the Heat Island Effect

Provided by: Share My Lesson |Published on: May 15, 2026

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Synopsis

This lesson examines how artificial intelligence data centers create local heat islands that raise surrounding land surface temperatures.
Students read, discuss data visualizations, and respond to discussion questions and media literacy prompts.

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Subjects: Earth and Space Sciences

Authors: Andy Kratochvil

Region: Global

Languages: English

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Teaching Materials

Prerequisites:

Ensure students are familiar with data centers and how AI companies use them.
Review concepts like climate change, water scarcity, and the urban heat island effect.

Classroom Implementation:

Activate students' background knowledge by asking them about their AI use.

Differentiation:

Consider printing the Cheat Sheet or writing the terms and definitions on the board for students to have a quick reference for content-specific terms.

Interdisciplinary Connections:

Social Studies:
- Have students look into this issue from an environmental justice perspective, using concepts such as redlining and environmental racism to inform their discussion.

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Scientist Reviewed

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AI Data Centers & the Heat Island Effect

Synopsis

Teaching Materials

Scientist Reviewed

Related Teaching Resources