Construction of data centres moves toward green building practices

As global investment in cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure accelerates, the construction sector is increasingly confronted with the challenge of materials with high energy intensity. According to the company, its strategy outlines an alternative approach that could serve as a model for contractors and engineering firms seeking to reduce embodied carbon, without compromising structural performance or construction timelines.

Shift toward mass timber

The use of wood-based products is now extending into industrial applications that have traditionally relied on steel and concrete. Meta is incorporating such materials into auxiliary buildings at data centre sites in states including North Carolina and Alabama, achieving an estimated reduction in embodied carbon of approximately 41%.

At the same time, the company notes that the lower weight of timber can reduce concrete requirements for foundations by up to 50%, thereby lowering both construction costs and timelines. It is also highlighted that, due to its fire performance—through the formation of a protective char layer—and its high strength-to-weight ratio, mass timber can be a reliable solution even for demanding applications.

Next-generation data centres

A notable example is Meta’s new data centre in Aiken County, a project representing an investment of over $800 million. The facility spans approximately 715,000 square feet and is expected to create around 100 jobs. The project marks a clear departure from traditional steel-and-concrete construction models.

Reducing the footprint of concrete

Despite the shift toward alternative materials, concrete remains essential to data centre infrastructure. Cement production is responsible for roughly 8% of global CO₂ emissions; however, there is significant potential for improvement. The use of alternative materials such as fly ash can reduce carbon intensity by up to 20%, without compromising strength.

In addition, design optimisations—such as reducing slab thickness or replacing concrete with gravel in certain infrastructure networks—can lower overall emissions by up to 30%.

Artificial intelligence in construction optimisation

Meta is also leveraging artificial intelligence tools to optimise concrete mixes, taking into account strength, curing time, and environmental performance. Through these models, the company aims to achieve emissions reductions of up to 70%, while maintaining required engineering specifications.

A new industry benchmark

Meta’s initiatives reflect a broader trend in the construction sector: a shift toward more sustainable materials and methods, with increasing emphasis not only on operational efficiency but also on the embodied carbon of construction itself.

For industry professionals, this approach may serve as a reference point in the years ahead, as demand for green infrastructure grows in parallel with the rapid expansion of data centre investments.