New Ramboll report explains how it’s possible to build net zero data centres

Image courtesy of Ramboll

Data centres already account for around 1.5% of global electricity consumption and that figure is expected to double by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).

In a new white paper released to coincide with Climate Week NYC, engineering, architecture and consulting firm Ramboll has set out how the negative environmental footprint of data centres can be addressed.

Its report shows how operational carbon is the dominant component of total carbon emitted by data centres but claims that net zero operational carbon is within reach through optimised energy efficiency and renewable energy procurement, energy reuse and export, and demand response.

Similarly, embodied carbon contained in the structure and materials of data centres can be reduced by using lower carbon steel and concrete, locally sourced materials, or reused materials from decommissioned buildings, the report says.

It also highlights how integrating biodiversity considerations into the planning, design, construction and operation of data centres is “vital” to minimise the negative impact on ecosystems and protect natural habitats.

And it notes that data centres “notoriously” consume vast quantities of water but said that water neutrality could be achieved with appropriate water reduction and reuse strategies, including avoiding water-based cooling.

Ed Ansett, Ramboll’s global director of technology and innovation, said, “The construction of data centres powered by the rise of artificial intelligence is booming across the globe, driving unprecedented demand for electricity and significantly contributing to global greenhouse gas emissions, increased water consumption, waste production, habitat destruction, and resource depletion.

“These challenges can be managed and mitigated if data centres are built with climate, biodiversity, and circularity in mind from the very start.”