Which of the following is a potential environmental impact of data centers?

The potential environmental impact of data centers that is represented by increased greenhouse gas emissions is significant because data centers consume substantial amounts of energy, primarily for powering servers and cooling systems. This energy consumption often relies on fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases when burned. As the demand for data and digital services grows, data centers expand, increasing their energy consumption, which in turn elevates the emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

Mitigating these emissions is a critical consideration in data center design, operation, and strategy. Many organizations are now seeking ways to utilize renewable energy sources and improve energy efficiency to combat this environmental challenge.