UK seeks to boost AI leadership, address data ignorance

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has outlined a vision for Britain to emerge as a leading global force in the field of Artificial Intelligence, with a particular emphasis on the strategic role played by data centres. Recent findings from a Telehouse study reveal a concerning lack of public awareness regarding data centres, despite their crucial role in digital infrastructure and their recent designation as Critical National Infrastructure by the government.

The survey conducted by Telehouse engaged over 2,000 UK consumers and found that more than half (51%) of UK adults have never encountered the term 'data centre', and 67% are unaware of their purpose and how they impact daily lives. This knowledge gap presents a challenge as the government increases investments in AI and digital infrastructure.

Mark Pestridge, Executive Vice President and General Manager at Telehouse Europe, remarked, "We realise there's a significant knowledge gap regarding data centres and their impact on digital lives. By introducing 'DC,' we hope to educate people about the critical work done in data centres and inspire our future generations to consider careers in this field. We also hope that bridging this knowledge divide may be key to increasing trust in the digital infrastructure that underpins our connected lives."

The study indicated varying levels of understanding about the significance of data centres. While 48% of those surveyed acknowledged the positive impact of data centres on digital services, such as streaming and online shopping, nearly half of the participants (43%) seemed unaware of the extensive scope and operations carried out by these facilities. Additionally, only 59% recognised the importance of data centres in facilitating remote work, with 19% uncertain about their role and 15% considering their contribution as negligible.

To address this lack of understanding, Telehouse has introduced an educational campaign featuring a character named 'DC'. The initiative includes a video aimed at clarifying the functions and importance of data centres, supporting an informed perspective on the infrastructure supporting technology in everyday life. The campaign is part of Telehouse's broader commitments, which also encompass offering apprenticeships, work experience, and advocating for educational programmes focused on data centre technology.

This initiative reflects the need for enhanced public knowledge amid government plans. Angela Rayner, a key figure supporting the sector, has pushed forward developments like the fast-tracking of a GBP £670 million data centre in Buckinghamshire, indicating the strategic importance placed on this sector by the current administration.

The research, completed by Censuswide for Telehouse, highlights an urgent need to close the public knowledge gap to foster trust and backing for the digital transformations backed by UK's leadership. As public understanding of data centres remains low, initiatives like Telehouse's aim to better inform and involve the population in the ongoing digital advancements.