A new report from BSI and Waterwise analyses global data centre capacity and water security levels to ensure sustainable growth of the data center market.
According to the report, the global data center sector is on a steep growth trajectory. It is projected to be worth around $527 billion, with forecasts suggesting the market could almost double by 2030.
The report says expansion is being fueled by a powerful set of drivers:
- the rise of AI and machine learning,
- the rapid growth of cloud computing,
- ongoing digital transformation,
- the proliferation of the Internet of Things (IoT),
- the adoption of 5G networks, and
- an increasing emphasis on data sovereignty, security, regulation, and sustainable, energy efficient technologies.
In recognition of their increasingly vital role in sustaining digital life, some governments now classify data centres as critical infrastructure. However, unlike traditional infrastructure, much of the sector remains privately owned.
Rapid data centre expansion is placing pressure on natural resources, and the energy and land required. Among the most pressing sustainability issues for data centers is water efficiency. The report describes data centres as “incredibly thirsty”, warning that their rapid expansion is coming at a time when water scarcity is of significant global concern.
The paper explores global data center capacity and ambitions, comparing these to water security levels and the sustainability policies and legislation in place to address this.
Nearly two-thirds (63%) of business leaders agree that businesses should acknowledge water usage and efficient water management as key environmental challenges associated with AI, the report says.
The report examines:
- Global data centre capacity and growth
- Water security levels in key data centre markets
- The presence of policy frameworks shaping sustainable expansion
- Why collaboration between public and private sectors is essential for success
- The data centre and water management challenge.
- How the water use of data centers compares to other societal infrastructure.
- Regulation and legislation relating to data center water management.
- Global water security levels.Key takeaways to improve the water efficiency of data centers.
Click here to download the full report
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