Protests are intensifying across Chile, Uruguay, and the U.S. as tech giants like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft build massive data centers in drought-stricken regions, sparking concerns over water scarcity and environmental degradation. These facilities, essential for powering artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, consume vast amounts of water and energy—often without sufficient transparency or community input.
While some countries, like Sweden, provide sustainable alternatives using renewable energy and water recycling, many data centers in Latin America and the U.S. face backlash for ignoring environmental regulations and local needs. As global demand for computing grows, the tension between technological progress and ecological responsibility continues to escalate.
This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.