Metro Connect 2027 agenda

From Consumption to Contribution ' can digital infrastructure be part of the water solution? Water is becoming a defining issue in community acceptance of digital infrastructure projects. Gallup found that 71% of Americans oppose AI data centres in their local area, with concerns over excessive water and energy consumption emerging as the most frequently cited reasons for opposition. This session explores how operators can move beyond mitigation to become partners in local water resilience through conservation, reuse, infrastructure investment and stakeholder engagement. ' How can digital infrastructure developers work with local communities and utilities to address water challenges while supporting continued growth? ' What examples exist of successful investments in water infrastructure, conservation, or reuse programs that have strengthened community support for projects? ' Can water stewardship evolve from a risk-management exercise into a meaningful community engagement strategy that delivers shared long-term value? format: closed door