Microsoft Faces Environmental Pushback Over Data Center Plans in Germany

Environmental group BUND calls for Microsoft to reconsider building data centers on farmland, urging use of industrial sites instead.

Microsoft plans to invest billions in building up to four data centers in the Rheinisches Revier region of Germany as part of a broader effort to support the region's transition away from coal mining.
Environmental group BUND, supported by 79,000 petition signatories, is urging Microsoft to build on disused industrial sites rather than farmland to protect valuable agricultural land.
BUND has raised concerns about the environmental impact of the planned data centers, including land use, cooling water needs, and renewable energy sourcing, and has called for greater transparency from Microsoft.
Microsoft has stated that the data centers will be built in collaboration with local municipalities and will follow ecological standards, including using closed water cooling systems and aiming for 100% renewable energy by 2025.
The NRW government supports the project, highlighting its potential to create up to 5,000 jobs and contribute to the region's economic transformation.