The image of Earth above presents a night-time view from space, vividly illustrating the environmental footprint of global data center activity in 2025. The planet is veined with glowing orange data lines that crisscross continents, symbolizing constant digital connectivity. Intense clusters of amber city lights across North America and Europe mark major data center hubs, with plumes of dark smoke rising above them—representing CO₂ emissions and heat waste. Two illuminated gauges on the left corner of the image track “Energy” and “Water” usage, both near their limits, reflecting the massive resource consumption of these digital infrastructures. At the bottom right, the yellow metric reads “CO₂ Emissions: 3543 MT,” drawing attention to the sector’s environmental toll. Wisps of cloud-like pollution drift across the globe, reinforcing the tension between technological progress and planetary health.

At Structure Research, we recognize that as the demand for cloud, edge, and AI infrastructure grows, so does our responsibility to understand and support sustainable practices across the ecosystem.

Our latest State of Environmental Impact – Data Center ESG Sustainability Report outlines how the industry is addressing environmental challenges, from energy efficiency and water usage to the adoption of renewables. It also highlights the strides made by data center operators, investors, and partners leading the way in responsible growth.

This Earth Day, we’re proud to contribute to the conversation around sustainability and help our data center community make data-driven decisions that support business objectives and a healthier planet.

➡️ Download the Structure Research 2025 ESG Sustainability Report.

Register for the annual executive data center conference infra/STRUCTURE Summit 2025 where the topic of data center sustainability will be covered.