# Jensen Huang says AI may need fossil fuels before helping the climate

- Published: 2026-09-24T18:04:44.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-25T18:06:08.546Z
- Section: Market
- Topics: Society
- Page: https://aidailyjournal.com/en/n/2026/09/24/jensen-huang-says-ai-will-require-temporary-fossil-fuel-use/
- Sources: [The Verge](https://theverge.com/tech/1000140/jensen-huang-nvidia-ai-energy-climate-change-supervillain)

## Summary

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said on The Ezra Klein Show that AI could help fight climate change, but that fossil fuels will unfortunately have to be used over the next several years because there is not enough sustainable energy to make a difference. He compared the process to surgery: painful intervention now for a better outcome later.

The Verge criticized that justification, arguing that it overlooks pollution and the climate impact of energy-hungry chip factories and data centers. The outlet also noted that climate change is already worsening wildfires, floods and sea-level rise, while the Paris Agreement calls for a rapid shift to carbon-free energy sources.

## Why it matters (editorial interpretation)

Jensen Huang’s statement highlights the tension between expanding AI infrastructure and cutting emissions. The Verge’s criticism underscores that this justification may overlook pollution and the climate impact of chip factories and data centers, as the effects of climate change are already intensifying.

_Summary written by AI Daily Journal in its own words, based on the sources above. For details, read the original articles._