Amazon Web Services (AWS) has achieved a significant milestone in water efficiency, now utilizing only 0.12 liters of water per kilowatt-hour, which is substantially lower than the industry average of 0.84 liters. This advancement positions AWS as seven times more efficient in water usage than its competitors.
The company is progressing towards its goal of being water positive by 2030, currently at 75% of the target. This initiative aims to ensure that for every gallon of water used, a greater volume is returned to the community from which it was sourced. AWS's cooling methods primarily involve using fans to circulate outside air, reserving evaporative cooling for hotter conditions.
Amidst growing concerns about water and energy consumption due to the expansion of data centers, Seattle's city council has enacted a one-year moratorium on new large facilities. AWS has acknowledged the discrepancy between public perception and the operational realities of its data centers, indicating a commitment to transparency and community engagement.