Data centres are expanding at an extraordinary pace. And with that growth comes increasing competition for electricity, water, land and other resources – as well as growing opposition to new developments.
When we founded dcently, it came from a shared frustration. Not because the industry isn't doing anything about sustainability. Quite the opposite. We see ambitious operators, suppliers and industry associations working hard to make a difference.
But we also see an opportunity to connect these efforts and look beyond individual companies and facilities.
Because the industry's future growth will depend not only on how efficiently data centres operate, but also on the value they create for the communities and societies around them.
What does a genuinely decent data centre look like?
One that uses resources responsibly, contributes to local communities and creates value beyond its own walls.
And perhaps we need to ask an even bigger question: What value does the digital infrastructure we build actually bring to society?
We believe the answers need to come from across the ecosystem.
That's why we created dcently – an independent non-profit working alongside operators, industry associations, suppliers, investors and other stakeholders to develop a shared understanding of what good looks like.
Not to reinvent what is already being done well, but to connect perspectives, challenge assumptions and help the industry move forward together.
Because earning the licence to grow is not just about reducing negative impacts. It's also about creating positive value.
Your perspective matters