As tech companies rapidly expand their infrastructure for artificial intelligence, they are also facing growing pressure to reduce environmental impact. A new project in South Carolina shows how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand, especially in large-scale construction.
Meta’s Data Center Brings a Sustainable Shift
In Aiken County, South Carolina, Meta has started building a massive $800 million data center. The facility will cover 715,000 square feet across 300 acres and is expected to be operational by spring 2027.
While most data centres rely heavily on concrete and steel, this project stands out because its administration building is being constructed mainly using mass timber.
This move reflects a growing trend where companies are looking for greener alternatives in construction. Even though the main data halls still use traditional materials, this step shows a clear shift in thinking.
What Makes Mass Timber a Better Option
Mass timber is becoming popular because it is more environmentally friendly compared to steel and concrete. It is made from sustainably sourced wood and has a much lower carbon footprint.
According to Meta’s sustainability lead, Blair Swedeen, using mass timber helps reduce “embodied carbon,” which means the total carbon emissions linked to building materials. This is important as the company aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030.
Another advantage is speed. Since mass timber parts are prefabricated, they can be assembled quickly on-site. This helps reduce construction time by several weeks. Also, because timber is lighter than concrete, it requires less material in the foundation, which further cuts down environmental impact.
How the Industry Is Adopting This Trend
The use of mass timber is not limited to one company. Other major tech players are also exploring it. For example, Amazon has tested mass timber in a delivery station project, and Microsoft has used it in a large data center.
The supplier for Meta’s project, Smartlam North America, is part of a growing industry that is shifting from residential buildings to large industrial projects.
One key reason for this shift is timing. Steel can take more than a year to source, while timber can be delivered in around six months. In fast-moving sectors like AI, this time difference is very important.
Benefits Beyond Sustainability
Mass timber offers several practical benefits that make it attractive for large projects. It is strong, durable, and even fire-resistant when engineered properly. It also improves the look and feel of buildings. Unlike cold steel structures, timber creates a warmer and more welcoming environment for workers.
Some of the main advantages include:
- Lower carbon emissions compared to traditional materials
- Faster construction due to prefabrication
- Reduced need for heavy foundations
- Better visual appeal and comfort
- Shorter supply timelines
Industry experts believe that as demand grows, mass timber could become a standard choice for many types of infrastructure, including warehouses and even server buildings.
A Step Toward Greener Infrastructure
Although Meta is currently using mass timber only for part of its South Carolina project, it gives a glimpse into the future of construction. As technology companies continue to grow, they will need faster and more sustainable ways to build.
The combination of speed, strength, and environmental benefits makes mass timber a promising solution. With more companies adopting it, the construction industry may soon see a major shift toward greener materials.
