Ecolab unveils plan to make AI data centers water-neutral after major acquisition

In an interview, Ecolab chief Christophe Beck detailed a $7 billion spend on water-efficiency projects and the closure of a $4.75 billion deal for CoolIT, a liquid-cooling specialist from Calgary. The acquisition equips Ecolab with closed-loop cooling that recovers heat from high-density chips without spraying water, enabling data centers to operate without drawing fresh water. Beck said this capability aligns with Ecolab’s 2030 sustainability targets, which aim to halve carbon output and help customers save 300 billion gallons of water annually.

The company, which serves three million customers in 172 nations, views the technology as a way to support AI growth while protecting community resources. Beck emphasized that the solution offers both environmental benefits and a high-margin business opportunity for the 103-year-old firm. He concluded that the initiative delivers profit, growth, and a positive impact on critical industries.