Activists breach Microsoft data centre site as protests spread in Europe
Campaigners said data centres pressure electricity and water supplies, compete with housing and other businesses for resources and threaten climate goals.
Protesters breached the construction site of a new Microsoft data centre in Amsterdam on Friday, marking the start of a series of rallies in response to the rapid expansion of AI-related computing power. The action, organized by the Stop Dirty Data Centres coalition, saw over 100 activists gather at the site, marching together and then breaking into the construction area, where they climbed cranes, hung balloons, and danced while police officers maintained order.
The protest coincided with several other planned actions across Europe, including a march in Dublin, a demonstration outside the parliament building in Warsaw, and a protest against a separate Microsoft data centre in Denmark. Pure Data Centres, the site owner, expressed commitment to engaging with local stakeholders and requested that those on site leave safely to dialogue about the development and address any concerns.
Microsoft acknowledged the strong feelings surrounding the project and respects the right to peaceful expression but condemned unlawful actions. The controversy surrounding AI development has sparked global concern, with stock markets experiencing a downturn and technology stocks hitting a second day of sharp losses. Critics argue that data centres strain electricity and water resources, compete for limited space, and jeopardize climate goals while potentially leading to job losses and compromised security.
Supporters, however, contend that data centres are crucial for meeting global demand for AI and cloud computing and provide essential infrastructure.
The European Union finds itself at a crossroads, balancing its ambition to compete with the United States and Asia in AI development with the need to maintain stricter control and public protection measures. EU technology chief Henna Virkkunen emphasized the importance of Europe developing its own AI capacity, but stressed that this development must be done responsibly, considering the environmental impact and energy bills of citizens.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
