Science

Many data centers are located where water resources are limited

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Briefings

A new global analysis indicates one-quarter of the world's data centers currently operate in water-stressed regions, with projections suggesting this share could increase to one-third under future climate scenarios. Researchers from Environmental Science & Technology mapped facility locations against regional water availability, identifying areas where demand exceeds supply for at least one month annually.

Key points

• One-quarter of global data centers are located in water-stressed areas where demand exceeds supply for at least one month each year.
• Projections indicate this proportion could rise to one-third under future climate scenarios.

Context

This analysis by researchers in Environmental Science & Technology highlights a critical infrastructure vulnerability, as data centers rely heavily on water for cooling systems. The findings underscore the growing risk of operational disruptions in regions facing increasing water scarcity.

Limitations

The study relies on a single global analysis without real-time data, limiting its ability to capture current operational conditions. Future climate scenarios are projections rather than confirmed facts, and the specific water demand metrics for each facility are not detailed.

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