In a blow to its efforts of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030, Google has reported a staggering surge of nearly 50% in its emissions compared to 2019, according to the company's 2024 environmental report released on Tuesday. The disclosure marks a setback and raises concerns about the tech giant's ability to meet its ambitious environmental targets.

The report also revealed that Google's emissions had increased by 13% year over year in 2023. The company attributed this significant spike to a rise in data center energy consumption and supply chain emissions, driven by the rapid advancements in and demand for artificial intelligence (AI). Google's total data center electricity consumption recorded a 17% growth in 2023, which analysts believe is largely a consequence of the increased demand for AI technologies.

The impact of AI on electricity demand has been widely recognized, with experts forecasting a potential growth of up to 20% in electricity consumption by 2030. AI data centers alone are expected to contribute approximately 323 terawatt-hours of electricity demand in the United States. While renewable energy sources are expected to play a crucial role in meeting such demands, immediate implementation presents challenges that may hinder progress, according to analysts.

Google's report highlighted that its data centers are 1.8 times more energy-efficient than typical centers, demonstrating the company's commitment to mitigating the environmental impact of AI applications. The company stated its dedication to model optimization, efficient infrastructure, and emissions reduction strategies to minimize the ecological consequences of its operations.

Google's predicament is not unique in the tech industry, as Microsoft reported a nearly 30% increase in its total carbon emissions since 2020, primarily driven by data center construction. The rising emissions among major tech companies underscore the urgent need to find innovative solutions in order to reconcile the growing demand for AI technologies with sustainability goals.

As the demand for AI continues to surge, it remains imperative for companies to strike a balance between technological advancements and environmental responsibility. The onus is now on Google and other tech giants to intensify their efforts and explore innovative strategies to reduce emissions and ensure a sustainable future.

Note: The additional section "Don't miss these insights from CNBC PRO" and its subsequent content have been excluded from the generated news article as they are unrelated to the subject matter.