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Thousands turn out in Edinburgh to protest against AI data centres
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- Thousands protested in Edinburgh against large-scale AI data centres, expressing concerns over environmental impacts and local disruptions, with demonstrations marching towards the Scottish Parliament.
- Protesters opposed plans for data centres in communities like Cockenzie and Larbert, citing worries about noise, pollution, and the scale of electricity consumption, describing the developments as harmful to the environment.
- The Scottish government is preparing new planning guidance and a strategic approach to data centres, aiming to balance development with public benefit amid debates on their environmental and energy impacts.
- Campaigners and the Scottish Greens have called for a moratorium on large data centres due to their potential to undermine climate targets and strain renewable energy resources.
- Innovation Minister Alyn Smith defended data centre development, criticizing some public discourse as exaggerated, while environmental groups urge more public input and caution given the uncertain long-term effects.
