More than 100 activists entered a Microsoft data centre construction site in Amsterdam on November 6, escalating protests against the rapid expansion of infrastructure supporting artificial intelligence. The demonstration is part of a wider campaign calling for governments to pause large-scale data centre projects until stronger environmental and regulatory safeguards are established.
Protesters climbed cranes, displayed banners and gathered inside the construction area as police monitored the situation. The action was organised as part of the Stop Dirty Data Centres coalition, which has announced demonstrations across 16 countries over November 6 and 7.
Campaigners argue that the growing number of data centres is putting pressure on electricity and water supplies. They also warn that these facilities compete with housing, businesses and local communities for limited resources.
The coalition said that it is not seeking to stop existing data centres or oppose technological progress. Instead, it wants governments to establish clear rules before approving more large-scale developments.
Other planned demonstrations include a march in Dublin, a protest outside Poland's parliament in Warsaw and an action targeting another Microsoft data centre project in Denmark.
The Amsterdam facility is being developed by Pure Data Centres, which plans to invest more than USD 1 billion in the project. The company urged demonstrators to leave safely and offered to discuss their concerns.
Microsoft said it respects people's right to peaceful protest but does not support unlawful activities or actions that put public safety at risk.
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Technology companies argued that data centres are essential for meeting rising demand for AI services and cloud computing. However, their growing energy requirements are becoming a concern for governments and environmental groups.
EU technology chief Henna Virkkunen has supported expanding Europe's data centre capacity while warning that development must not lead to higher electricity bills, power shortages or environmental damage.
The Netherlands currently has around 200 data centres planned, under construction or operating. The latest demonstrations highlight the growing tension between Europe's AI ambitions and concerns about the environmental and social costs of expanding digital infrastructure.