Policy priorities

Environmental Stewardship

Responsible growth means managing environmental impact. DPN advocates for policies that help AI, high-performance computing, and digital asset facilities cut emissions, conserve water, and reuse equipment, with measurable results that reflect local conditions and leave room for new technology.

By the numbers

The footprint, in context

Data centers’ share of global emissions is small but growing, efficiency gains have stalled, and most electronic waste is never formally recycled.

0.5%

Of global energy-related CO₂ emissions

From data centers today; could reach about 1% by 2030

International Energy Agency, Energy and AI (2025)View source

1.54

Average data center PUE

Power usage effectiveness, flat for six years. 1.0 means every watt reaches the computers

Uptime Institute, Global Data Center Survey 2025View source

22.3%

Of global e-waste is formally recycled

Of 62 million tonnes generated in 2022

UN Global E-waste Monitor 2024View source
On this page

Challenge

As compute infrastructure expands, so do questions about emissions, water use, land use, and equipment disposal. Impacts vary with a facility’s design, power source, cooling system, and local resources, and goals can conflict: using less water, for example, can mean using more electricity. Communities need credible information. Operators need predictable rules and practical ways to improve. Inconsistent measurement and broad sustainability claims erode public trust.

Approach

DPN works with policymakers, industry, and local stakeholders to make environmental progress practical and measurable. We support access to cleaner energy, water conservation, and responsible equipment reuse and recycling, backed by credible reporting and incentives for facility upgrades. Requirements should reflect regional resource constraints and recognize differences among computing workloads and operating models. Through industry-led standards and transparent communication, operators can show real progress, and communities can see how impacts are managed.

Solution

DPN’s environmental impact agenda centers on three priorities:

  1. Reduce Emissions

    Support access to reliable, cleaner electricity and incentives for measurable emissions cuts through modernization, efficient operations, and better power sourcing.

  2. Conserve Water and Manage Local Impacts

    Encourage water-efficient cooling, reclaimed water where feasible, responsible siting, and practical steps to address noise, air quality, and land use.

  3. Advance Circularity and Accountability

    Promote equipment reuse, refurbishment, and recycling, with practical reporting standards that help operators show progress and communities judge results.

Let’s build what comes next

AI, data centers, and digital asset infastructure are reshaping demand. Help keep the grid reliable and affordable as it grows.

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Digital Power Network
Digital Power Network