UK Ministers Meet AI Datacenter CEOs, Skip Environmental Groups

UK ministers spent all their briefing time with AI datacenter CEOs. Environmental NGOs never got a single slot in those meetings. An investigation revealed businesses completely dominated the agenda. The focus was on shaping new AI Growth Zones across the country. Communities were left out of decisions that could affect local air quality. No environmental group was invited to discuss the zones' impact. The report says ministers prioritized industry over climate concerns. Industry leaders argued rapid AI infrastructure is essential for the economy. Critics warned that ignoring green voices could backfire politically. The lack of balance sparked anger among local activists. Officials have yet to schedule any follow-up with environmental groups. One insider summed it up: "We're hearing the machines, not the rivers."