Data centers are no longer limited to the outskirts of conventional connectivity centers, remaining discreetly hidden from view and thought. The surge in demand for facilities and the swift construction process has brought these facilities into the limelight. This has led to local communities increasingly voicing their concerns regarding data center developments in their vicinity.
A Gallup poll in May showed that seven out of ten Americans are against the construction of AI data centers in their local area, with almost half (24%) strongly opposing it. Thus, the industry faces the challenge of managing public perception by ensuring seamless integration of data centers into the communities they serve.
Jenna Hamilton, VP of National Affairs at Green Building Initiative (GBI), explains how the non-profit’s blueprint for sustainable and responsible development is aiding data centers in bridging the gap with the surrounding communities. We must consider every aspect of the data center, not just its energy consumption when completed, but each individual component as we assemble it like a puzzle, says Hamilton, GBI.
Prior to construction. The inevitable tension between data centers and the communities they serve seems to be a constant feature of the modern digital landscape. Despite the varying opinions, it’s undeniable that these facilities have become essential in our growing digital economy.
They support numerous sectors such as businesses, government agencies, healthcare, and education. Regardless of whether they are seen as intrusive or promising for progress, the demand for their services keeps increasing and technology is rapidly advancing. Data centers are here to stay.
Therefore, it’s crucial to develop and incorporate this vital infrastructure in a manner that is advantageous. Both the end user and the communities located close to the data center? The solution starts well before construction begins at the location. “If we consider the past five or six years, the industry used to function with a conventional tech approach of ‘rush and destroy,’ according to Hamilton. “For a lengthy period, it has significantly benefited the industry in numerous aspects.”
