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Microsoft is using restored wetlands and native gardens to help its data centers blend into local ecosystems at over 20 sites across the United States and Germany. This approach, described as "biomimicry," involves tools like Ecosystem Intelligence to score site features such as water quality and biodiversity. The goal is to minimize visual impact and use plant buffers to quiet data center humming, according to Kaitlin Chuzi, Microsoft’s director of global land strategy.

Critics question these efforts after recent energy deals, including a 20-year agreement in June to buy power from a planned Chevron gas plant in West Texas. Adrian Shelley, Public Citizen’s Texas director, called the plan "basically lipstick on a pig." In San Antonio, Councilmember Ric Galvan noted concerns about traffic and tree removal following a 2022 approval for a project that removed 2,642 trees. He suggested Microsoft may be "covering their bases," though he supports addressing resident concerns.

While Microsoft states it intends to leave land more productive than received, emissions have risen by 25% in fiscal 2025 according to its own report. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has paused new data center permit approvals until regulators audit them. Holly Alpine, who previously led ecosystem restoration work for the company, noted a gap between buildouts and sustainability goals. Experts suggest accurate measurement of benefits is key to genuine cooperation with local communities.