Europe's Growing Concerns Over Data Centers' Environmental Impact
A recent survey by AlgorithmWatch CH reveals growing concerns across Europe about the environmental impact of data centers. The poll, conducted in Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Ireland, and the UK, highlights fears about water supply and local ecosystems, as well as demands for stricter regulation.
Nearly 90% of Spaniards worry that data centers could threaten their water supply. Three-quarters of all respondents are concerned about potential harm to local ecosystems. In every country surveyed, a large majority supports stricter regulation and greater transparency for data centers.
The survey found that data centers account for a significant share of national electricity consumption. In Germany, they use over 4%, with estimates as high as 40% in Frankfurt and 80% in Dublin. In Ireland, data centers now consume 22% of the country's total electricity, contributing to soaring power prices. Nearly two-thirds of respondents believe data centers already consume a significant share of their country's electricity.
An equal number of respondents demand clear criteria for energy allocation, with data centers and AI models ranked as low-priority. More than 70% insist that new data centers should only be approved if their additional power needs are met by expanded renewable energy capacity.
The survey underscores the need for urgent action to address the environmental impacts of data centers. With public awareness and concern growing, particularly in countries like Spain and Ireland where data centers have sparked debate and protests, stricter regulation and transparency are increasingly demanded.
