Symposium on AI, Data Centers and the Climate Change Challenge
Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Michigan League Ballroom | 911 North University | Ann Arbor
This symposium marked an initial step in a broader, ongoing conversation bringing together university leadership, scholars, community members, and industry participants to explore the evolving intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), data center infrastructure, and climate change. As AI systems continue to develop and scale, they present both significant opportunities and important questions related to energy use, environmental impacts, equity, and shared prosperity.
The event created space to begin examining the material realities of digital technologies and to consider how universities can engage thoughtfully in this moment—not only as users of AI, but as institutions well positioned to help shape the norms, values, and social and physical systems that accompany their deployment.
Hundreds of students, faculty, staff, and community members shared their knowledge and discussed the issues around AI, data centers, and climate change during this event.
Keynote Address
“Tu Nube Mi Rio”: From Artificial Intelligence to Abundant Imagination
Dr. Ruha Benjamin delivered the keynote address, challenging narratives that cast technology as either a threat or a savior. She argued that conversations about AI and innovation must begin with society, not the tools, because algorithms reflect the values, assumptions, and power structures we embed in them. Benjamin highlighted how technological progress often benefits those in power while masking social and environmental harms, and how exclusion can be built into systems and spaces that appear neutral or inclusive. Drawing on the concept of “ancestral intelligence,” she called on scholars, designers, and communities to imagine alternatives rooted in care, responsibility, and interdependence among people and the planet. Vice Provost Shalanda Baker moderated a Q&A following the keynote. Learn more about Dr. Benjamin.
Student and Community Voices
Following the keynote, students and community members gathered for facilitated small-group discussions on AI, data centers, sustainability, and governance. Conversations focused on the academic experience, community engagement, environmental sustainability, and governance.
Participants expressed mixed views on AI in the classroom. While AI is seen as useful for research and productivity, many raised concerns about overreliance and its impact on writing, critical thinking, and skill development. Students and faculty emphasized the need for clearer guidance, ethical frameworks, and stronger student input.
Participants voiced concern that data center development often proceeds without meaningful engagement of affected communities. Barriers to participation, limited transparency around resource use, and skepticism about economic benefits were common themes. Attendees called for equitable siting, community benefit agreements, and more intentional planning.
Participants highlighted the energy, water, and land demands of AI-driven data centers and stressed the need for solutions such as on-site renewable energy, waste heat reuse, and brownfield development. Many also noted concerns about personal responsibility as AI becomes embedded by default in everyday tools.
Participants agreed that regulation has not kept pace with technological change, creating a reactive dynamic. Concerns included limited local authority, unclear cost allocation, and insufficient coordination across governments. Attendees emphasized the need for stronger accountability and transparency to protect communities and resources.
Faculty Workshop
Faculty and staff from across U-M participated in a three-hour, research-focused workshop to brainstorm potential project ideas designed to position the university as a leader in responsible data center infrastructure and AI innovation. Participants were invited to consider how universities can proactively shape the development, deployment, governance, and societal impact of AI in service of the public good.
This symposium was the kickoff event for a broader project on AI, data centers, and climate change administered by the Office of Sustainability and Climate Action.
Event Sponsors
