Getting to the centre of data centres: Vancouver sends clear message about the harms of AI
Despite its proposed economic benefits, many in the city worry of its environmental and social consequences
No AI Vancouver held a protest on May 23 from Waterfront Station to Granville Island. (File photo/Leslie Pham)
The No AI Vancouver movement kicked off with hundreds marching against the development of artificial intelligence (AI) data centres late last month.
Protesters walked from Waterfront Station to Granville Island in Vancouver. Hundreds of signs filled the streets, criticizing the environmental and social impacts of AI.
Concerns surrounding water usage, energy consumption, and environmental sustainability became central themes of the movement.
In early May, Telus announced its plans for three major AI data centres in British Columbia — developing two in Vancouver and expanding its existing one in Kamloops.
Those in support of the developments argue that it will grow Canada’s economy by supporting domestic innovation and creating jobs. Telus states its five-year $15 billion investment in B.C. aims to drive economic growth and support Canada’s AI leadership.
However, the ethical debate surrounding this project asks a larger question — are the environmental costs worth the economic benefits?
AI data centres require significant resources to power and cool data centres. It’s important to recognize this considering the dire climate change and water scarcity we see today.
Long-term environmental impacts include electronic waste that AI servers produce, on top of its high electricity and excessive water consumption.
Many critics also argue that profits will primarily flow to large technology companies and already wealthy investors rather than communities.
As AI becomes increasingly integrated into industries, such as finance and health care, the companies controlling these systems generate substantial revenue and make most of the profit.
The Vancouver protest reveals that the public’s concerns about AI are far beyond just the technology. At the centre, the argument is about accountability, sustainability, and who ultimately benefits from this expansion.
As AI continues to expand across industries and major cities, Vancouver’s message is clear: technological progress should not move forward without careful consideration of its ethical, environmental, and social consequences.
A second protest by No AI Vancouver will be held on June 27 at 1:00 pm, kicking off at the Vancouver Art Gallery.
