Nine Organizations Launch Greening AI Data Centers Coalition

Nine global sustainable finance and built environment organizations launched the Greening AI Data Centers Coalition (GADCC) on April 23, 2026. The initiative aims to establish transparent, internationally aligned benchmarks and sustainability standards for data centers to combat greenwashing amid rising AI-driven demand for computing power.

The coalition focuses on creating common sustainability criteria that cover carbon emissions, water usage, waste management, and community impact. Additionally, the group will support the development of green finance instruments, including green bonds and sustainability-linked loans.

This effort responds to growing concerns that rapid data center expansion is straining global electricity grids and local water supplies, which could potentially undermine broader decarbonization goals. Founding members include the U.S. Green Building Council, the Climate Bonds Initiative, and the Indian Green Building Council, among others.