Climate

Drax datacentre could emit significant CO2 from wood burning

The Guardian · October 6, 2026Original source ↗

Drax datacentre could emit significant CO2 from wood burning

What happened

An analysis indicates that Drax's planned datacentre in North Yorkshire may produce nearly double the annual emissions of all flights at Gatwick airport by burning 4.9 million tonnes of wood. Campaign group research highlights the environmental impact of the datacentre's proposed operations.

Why it matters

This story is significant as it highlights the potential environmental consequences of large-scale energy projects.

How this story affects people

How does this story affect you if you live near the Drax datacentre in North Yorkshire?

The significant CO2 emissions from the datacentre could affect local air quality, potentially impacting your health and the environment in your community. Increased pollution may lead to respiratory issues and other health concerns for residents.

How does this story affect you if you are concerned about climate change?

The emissions from the Drax datacentre highlight the environmental impact of large-scale energy projects, which could contribute to global warming. This may affect your advocacy efforts and the urgency of addressing climate-related policies.

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