In today’s context of digital transformation and climate emergency, the design and operation of data centers must evolve beyond energy efficiency. Water sustainability—often overlooked—is beginning to play a more prominent role within ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria. In this scenario, Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) are emerging as an innovative solution to address one of the major challenges of digital infrastructure: smart stormwater management.
What are SUDS and why do they matter?
SUDS are systems designed to manage rainwater in a natural, efficient, and sustainable way. Unlike conventional drainage systems that quickly channel water into underground networks, SUDS aim to mimic the hydrological processes of the natural environment. This is achieved through elements such as permeable pavements, infiltration trenches, green roofs, retention basins, or rain gardens.
These systems are particularly relevant in urban and industrial settings for three main reasons:
- They reduce the risk of flooding.
- They improve the quality of water filtered into the ground.
- They promote integration between infrastructure and the environment.
In an industry like data centers—where reliability and resilience are everything—water management should not be treated as a minor issue.
Water is also critical in a Data Center
Although we tend to associate data centers with electricity, racks, and cooling systems, water plays a far more prominent role than it might seem. Torrential rain events can seriously compromise operational continuity if proper drainage systems aren’t in place. And with climate change, these events are becoming more frequent and intense.
SUDS can be integrated into different phases of the data center lifecycle:
Design: Through hydrological studies and the inclusion of solutions like permeable pavements and retention zones
Construction: Using suitable materials that allow water infiltration without compromising equipment stability.
Operation: Monitoring the water performance of the platform, integrating sensors and predictive maintenance systems.
In our previous article on energy efficiency and sustainability in data center we already pointed out that reducing carbon footprint is not enough—data centers must also proactively tackle water-related challenges.
Permeable pavements and smart retention: technical solutions with added value
One of the most widely adopted SUDS solutions in industrial environments is permeable pavements. These materials allow water to filter into the ground, reducing surface runoff and preventing drainage systems from being overwhelmed. In the case of data centers, these pavements can be installed in transit areas, parking lots, or outdoor platforms without compromising structural load.
Complementing this solution, retention and infiltration systems—such as drainage trenches, underground tanks, or ponds—can temporarily store water and release it slowly, controlling flow rates and preventing overflow in adjacent systems.
Key benefits of incorporating SUDS into Data Centers
Beyond their positive environmental impact, integrating SUDS into a data center can provide tangible technical, economic, and operational benefits:
- Guaranteed operational continuity
Avoiding floods is not just a matter of comfort—it’s critical. Heavy rainfall can flood access points, outdoor technical areas, or even cause short circuits if water reaches sensitive areas. SUDS help manage these events without relying solely on pumps or forced drainage systems.
- Savings in infrastructure and maintenance costs
A natural drainage strategy reduces the need to oversize sewer networks or install complex mechanical evacuation systems. Moreover, well-designed SUDS require less intensive long-term maintenance.
- Indirect improvement in thermal efficiency
Permeable or landscaped outdoor areas can help dissipate heat and create environments with lower surface temperatures, which complements indirect cooling or free cooling systems.
- Reputational value and ESG alignment
More and more data center operators must demonstrate their commitment to environmental standards. Incorporating SUDS not only helps meet regulations but also enhances the data center’s image among clients, investors, and regulators.
As we pointed out in our blog on MPGM and DCIM, combining environmental best practices with intelligent digital management can become a driver of innovation. SUDS are part of that forward-looking infrastructure logic.a para los desafíos del futuro.
Real-world examples and international comparisons
In Spain, regions like Catalonia and the Basque Country have developed pioneering regulations promoting sustainable drainage solutions in industrial developments. For instance, the “Pla Especial Urbanístic d’Infraestructures” from the AMB (Barcelona Metropolitan Area) includes water sustainability requirements for new constructions, including tech centers.
In Europe, countries like the UK and the Netherlands have taken it a step further by making SUDS a mandatory part of any critical infrastructure. In London, the “Telehouse North Two” data center implemented green roofs and a rainwater retention system with sensors connected to the BMS platform, reducing hydraulic overload events by 35% during heavy rainfalls.
Regulatory framework and innovation momentum
Spanish legislation is progressing, particularly through the Climate Change and Energy Transition Law (2021), which encourages the adaptation of critical infrastructure to climate-related risks. In addition, new public procurement contracts and urban licenses are increasingly including requirements related to water management.
At the European level, the EU Green Taxonomy Regulation highlights water efficiency as a criterion for classifying sustainable activities. This opens the door to financial incentives, environmental certifications, and improved ESG positioning for companies that adopt SUDS in their data centers.
Final thoughts
Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s imperative. And while data centers are making important strides in energy efficiency, water management remains an outstanding challenge in many facilities.
Integrating SUDS into data centers is not only an environmental necessity—it also makes operational and business sense: mitigating risks, optimizing resources, and aligning with emerging regulations.