EcoGPT faces scrutiny over regenerative AI claims

As AI-driven energy consumption rises, with the International Energy Agency (IEA) projecting data center power demand to reach 950 TWh by 2030, a new 'Regenerative AI' market segment has emerged. EcoGPT, a Delaware-registered Benefit Corporation founded by Ethan Leonard, claims to fund tree planting based on user query volume—one tree per 200 queries for free users and per 100 for Pro subscribers. While the startup reports over 263,000 trees planted, questions remain regarding the transparency and efficacy of its climate model. The company has not responded to requests for comment regarding its technical architecture.