Activists storm Microsoft data centre site in Amsterdam

· Tech · Netherlands · European Union

Activists stormed the construction site of a Microsoft data centre in Amsterdam on Friday, as the backlash to the social and environmental harms of the AI boom spreads across Europe. Protesters from Geef Tegengas, a Dutch group, breached the site, while separate actions took place outside the fence and across Europe. Site owner Pure Data Centres said it was committed to engagement with local stakeholders. Data centres face protests across Europe due to the massive amounts of computing power and water they use.

Why it matters：Local resistance to data centres is becoming a real constraint on the AI buildout, with implications for tech companies' expansion plans in Europe.

Key points

  • Activists breached a Microsoft data-centre site in Amsterdam.
  • Protests spread to other sites across Europe.
  • Data centres are criticised for heavy water and power use.

Sources (original reporting)

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