Introduction
As technology use continues to rise globally, the need for data centers becomes increasingly urgent. However, experts agree that their construction must be resilient, efficient, and in line with current environmental demands.
The Environmental Challenge of Data Centers
During a virtual meeting organized by construction firm Gaya, experts highlighted the environmental challenge of data centers in the country and the opportunities presented by this burgeoning industry. The direct investment in data centers is projected to reach $9,200 million by 2029, with indirect investments expected to total $27,500 million.
“Along with smart power management, the use of renewable energy sources, lithium-ion battery adoption, free cooling, and real-time monitoring, these are the pillars for the data center market to evolve towards genuine sustainability,” said Sánchez.
Regulations and Environmental Certifications
According to industry insiders, the data center sector is committed to sustainability and aims to align with the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement.
“Sustainability is no longer a differentiator; it’s a fundamental principle. Certifications ensure that the sector’s initiatives meet both global commitments and local requirements,” stated Adriana Rivera, Executive Director of the Mexican Data Centers Association.
Manuel Rangel, Director of Data Centers Business Unit at GAYA, emphasized the importance of adapting a sustainability focus across all construction phases.
“All actors—design, construction, and operation—must work collaboratively. If each area makes decisions in isolation, long-term problems will arise. A collaborative approach allows for anticipating risks and securing both return on investment in profitability and reduction of environmental impact,” Rangel commented.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Why is sustainability crucial for data centers? A: Sustainability is no longer just a differentiator; it’s a fundamental principle for the data center sector, ensuring alignment with global commitments and local requirements.
- Q: How can the data center industry adapt to environmental challenges? A: By focusing on smart power management, renewable energy sources, lithium-ion battery adoption, free cooling, and real-time monitoring, the data center market can evolve towards genuine sustainability.
- Q: What role do certifications play in ensuring data center sustainability? A: Certifications ensure that the sector’s initiatives meet both global commitments and local requirements, reinforcing sustainability as a fundamental principle.
- Q: Why is collaboration essential in data center construction? A: Collaboration among design, construction, and operation actors helps anticipate risks, secure return on investment in profitability, and reduce environmental impact.
