Asia-Pacific data centre operators launch sustainability accord with voluntary targets

• Eleven operators sign voluntary accord setting sustainability targets across energy, water use
• Designed to complement existing regulatory frameworks rather than replace them

Eleven major data centre operators have signed a voluntary sustainability agreement covering the Asia-Pacific region, establishing what organisers say are the first APAC-wide industry commitments on environmental targets.

The Sustainable Digital Infrastructure Accord (SDIA), launched by the Asia-Pacific Data Centre Association (APDCA) on March 26, sets voluntary targets across four areas: energy efficiency, clean energy use, water consumption, and circular economy practices.

The accord is non-binding and designed to complement existing regulatory frameworks rather than replace them, according to APDCA. Signatories include AirTrunk, Digital Realty, EdgeConneX, Equinix, Global Switch, Microsoft, NTT Data, Princeton Digital Group, ST Telemedia Global Data Centres, Stack Infrastructure, and Vantage Data Centers.

“The SDIA demonstrates how the industry is ready to work together to ensure that digital transformation and sustainability go hand-in-hand in Asia-Pacific,” said Jeremy Deutsch, Chair of APDCA. “It establishes the first APAC-wide baseline of industry commitments, and provides a structured platform for government-industry dialogue on how to drive further progress.”

The initiative has received support from government agencies across the region. Anuar Fariz Fadzil, CEO of Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), said the accord aligns with Malaysia’s goal to become an “AI Nation by 2030.”

“As the demand for digital infrastructure continues to grow in tandem with the expansion of cloud and AI technologies, such collaborative efforts will be key to shaping sustainable, climate-resilient digital ecosystems,” Fadzil said.

Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority also endorsed the initiative. Deputy Chief Executive Aileen Chia noted that data centres are “resource intensive” but present opportunities for innovation.

“Data centres in Singapore are already adopting measures to be more sustainable, such as by implementing the Tropical Data Centre and IT Energy Efficiency standards,” Chia said. “We look forward to working closely with the industry to continuously improve the sustainability targets for long-term growth.”

The accord acknowledges varying climatic, environmental, energy and water conditions across different Asia-Pacific markets. APDCA describes it as a “living framework” with targets and commitments intended to evolve over time.

The full accord document is available on the APDCA website.

Photo by İsmail Enes Ayhan on Unsplash