Google doubled down Wednesday on its commitment to offset water use as it expands its data center footprint, pledging to provide $500 million for local water and wastewater projects.
The announcement aims to offset local backlash over the environmental footprint of artificial intelligence data centers, which can consume millions of gallons of water per day and as much power as a small city.
Google said it is partnering with local governments and nonprofits to replenish more water than the company consumes for data center cooling by 2030. Earlier this year, Google issued a request for information to “co-fund” water conservation initiatives, such as projects to restore wetlands, improve soil health and reduce water leaks.
“It’s good to see Google investing in new projects and making progress toward its replenishment goals,” Kirsten James, senior program director for water at the sustainability nonprofit Ceres, said in a statement. “However, it’s also important to provide more information about how these initiatives will measurably contribute to protecting healthy water supplies in water-stressed regions.”
