Thousands of people marched through Edinburgh on 14 November to oppose plans for AI data centres in Scotland, according to Friends of the Earth Scotland. The group said the demonstration moved down the Royal Mile to the Scottish Parliament.
Friends of the Earth Scotland said more than 80 organisations supported the action. The coalition included environmental groups, trade unions, charities, and local campaigners. The march called for a national conversation on AI data centre proposals, the group said.
The campaigners want the Scottish Government to consult the public before any approvals are granted for AI data centres. Friends of the Earth Scotland said the demand is for a clear, open process that weighs community, climate, and economic impacts.
Calls for consultation
Friends of the Earth Scotland said the marchers’ message was that decisions on large-scale digital infrastructure should not proceed without wider public input. The group framed the event as a push for transparency around planning and energy use linked to AI-focused facilities.
Friends of the Earth Scotland did not provide an exact turnout figure beyond saying it was in the thousands. There were no police or government estimates available at the time of publication. It is not yet known which specific proposals the protest targeted, or which companies are involved. No official response from the Scottish Government was available when this story was filed. It is also not known whether any arrests or incidents occurred during the march.
Friends of the Earth Scotland has urged ministers to pause any approvals until a public consultation is completed. The group said communities should have a say on where data centres are built and how they are powered.
Friends of the Earth Scotland said the coalition of supporters plans to keep pressing for a formal consultation and a broader debate on the role of AI data centres in Scotland’s economy and energy system.
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