Rabat:The Minister of Natural Resources and Environment chaired a meeting of the Subcommittee on Environment, part of the Data Center Business Policy Committee, at the Pollution Control Department building. The meeting focused on drafting new environmental standards for data centers to manage electricity, water, and fuel use, with the aim of minimizing public disruption.
According to Thai News Agency, the meeting was attended by key officials, including Dr. Raveewan Phuridej, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry and Vice Chair of the Subcommittee, and Mr. Bannarak Sermthong, Secretary-General of the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning. The subcommittee is tasked with developing a Code of Practice (CoP) for data center operators, which will include minimum measures for sustainable management.
Mr. Suchart Chomklin, the Minister, emphasized the need for balancing investment in the growing data center sector with environmental protection and public welfare. The draft CoP aims to ensure that operations adhere to standards that mitigate environmental risks while supporting the digital economy.
Key focuses of the draft guidelines include setting clear operational standards, particularly concerning data center size and public safety. Effective communication with the public and collaboration with relevant government agencies for environmental monitoring are prioritized to ensure a comprehensive framework that supports investment without compromising economic growth.
The draft Code of Practice will be refined based on feedback from various agencies and experts to ensure its effectiveness and practicality. Once finalized, the guidelines will be presented to the Data Center Business Policy Committee for further consideration. The Ministry is committed to overseeing the development of high-quality, environmentally friendly data centers that harmoniously coexist with local communities.