Turns out most of us really don’t mind data centers
More than half feel positive about data centers
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
New research from CyrusOne suggests there’s strong support from the public for data centers across Europe as businesses and consumers demand more compute andcloudservices.
More than half (51%) of the 13,000 individuals questioned felt positive about data centers, with a further 42% expressing neutrality, leaving only a small percentage of negative perception remaining.
However, even those with positive attitudes towards data centers expressed concerns about the environmental impact of energy- and resource-hungry data centers.
The public are on board with data centers
Despite the positive outlook, a clear understanding of a data center’s purpose was not so common. Only 52% were able to correctly identify a data center’s primary function, and fewer than half (45%) associated data centers with online tools likevideo conferencing, social media and digital messaging.
Moreover, only 38% of British respondents understood their primary purpose, which is below the average and significantly below German residents (66%).
The lack of understanding didn’t detract from the hope for economic benefits – more than three in five acknowledged that data centers create job opportunities (66%) and accelerate local economic growth (62%). Those living closer to data centers were more likely to feel this way.
“It’s clear from the research that public opinion of data centers is more positive than expected and that perhaps the sector is not always presented in a way that accurately portrays how people really perceive the sector," noted Emma Fryer, Director of Public Policy for Europe at CyrusOne.
Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!
Speaking about increased local support, Fryer added: “It is therefore really important that we, as developers and operators, listen carefully to people in our host communities, while continuing to educate, identify their needs and act accordingly to deliver meaningful local benefits.”
You might also like
With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!
How Agentic AI will revolutionize business operations – are you ready?
Owl Labs Meeting Owl 4+ review
I’m a Nintendo Switch expert, here are the five best early Black Friday deals right now
