The report explores the growth of data centers and their impact on water resources in nine countries, comparing national data center capacities with water security levels. The study highlights the urgent need for sustainable practices as the global data center market is expected to double by 2030, driven by advancements in cloud computing, AI, and digital services.
The surge in data center growth is exerting immense pressure on water supplies, particularly in regions already facing water scarcity. The annual water usage of a single 1MW data center is equivalent to the drinking water needs of more than 400 people per year, underscoring the magnitude of the challenge at hand.
David Mudd, the global head of digital trust assurance at BSI, emphasized the importance of utilizing non-potable water sources, such as treated sewage effluent, to reduce reliance on drinking water. Innovations like closed-loop air systems, hybrid cooling technologies, and immersion cooling can further diminish the water intensity of data centers, presenting viable solutions to mitigate the industry’s water consumption.
China, US Lack Sustainability EffortsÂ
An in-depth analysis of country-level data center ambitions and water resilience reveals significant disparities. China, with a water security score of 52 out of 85, faces high water insecurity and slow progress in implementing long-term solutions despite its booming data center market expected to double by 2030. Similarly, the United States scored 53 out of 85, indicating comparable water insecurity levels, with a lack of comprehensive water-efficiency policies despite substantial projected data center growth starting in 2026.
The combination of escalating cooling demands and strained regional water systems due to factors like climate change, population growth, and drought poses long-term risks to sustainable water management. Operators must consider the interconnected impacts of reducing water usage, as it may inadvertently lead to increased electricity consumption, necessitating a holistic approach to address both challenges simultaneously.
France stands out with a water security score of 37 out of 85, indicating lower water insecurity and notable progress in sustainable water management practices compared to other nations.
Water Governance Frameworks RequiredÂ
Countries with robust water governance frameworks are better equipped to support the expansion of digital infrastructure without exacerbating local water stress. The report emphasizes the critical need to address water efficiency, reuse, and alternative cooling strategies, especially with the rapid proliferation of AI and high-density computing that could amplify water-related risks if left unchecked.
Without collaborative efforts from data center operators, regulators, and policymakers, the continued expansion of data centers may worsen existing water shortages, particularly in regions already grappling with water security challenges. Aligning data center development with water resilience planning through enhanced reporting, efficiency standards, and sustainability regulations is deemed crucial for fostering sustainable digital growth while safeguarding vital water resources.
Mudd advocates for comprehensive water-saving measures, like mandatory location-specific water use reporting, stringent cooling efficiency requirements, and transparent guidelines for utilizing non-potable water sources. Engaging all stakeholders in early discussions and adopting metrics that reflect the full environmental impact are pivotal in formulating responsible growth strategies that balance water security concerns with operational needs.
