Extinction Rebellion (XR) activists targeted a Microsoft data center construction site in the Amsterdam port area on July 16th, attempting to sabotage reinforced concrete foundations with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, acetic acid, salt, and acrylic paint. XR claims the acid weakens concrete, hydrogen peroxide accelerates steel rust, and salt speeds up this process.

This action joins a prior campaign by Geef Tegengas, which previously halted construction for a day. Growing opposition in the Netherlands criticizes the ecological and social impact of hyperscale data centers, with a single Microsoft facility consuming 1% of the nation's electricity. These centers are increasingly linked to fueling the AI hype, which activists argue has led to tech layoffs and the proliferation of low-quality AI content.

Martijn Dekker, an XR spokesperson, noted the rising public concern over data centers, particularly regarding water waste for cooling amidst an acute water shortage. He stated that activists are evolving their tactics, moving from disruptive actions like blocking highways to direct targeting of sites like the Microsoft construction, aiming for actions that resonate with and are understood by the public.

This incident aligns with a global movement against energy-intensive hyperscalers. In the US, opposition has disrupted an estimated 75 projects worth approximately $130 billion by 2026. XR Netherlands has a history of large-scale disruptive actions, including repeated blockades of the A12 motorway.