AWS Invests US$4m in Swedish Wetland for Water Management
AWS has commenced construction on a US$4m wetland project in Stora Djulö, near Katrineholm, Sweden.
The initiative combines water management infrastructure with biodiversity enhancement and community recreation facilities. It also aims to address water management challenges in the Sörmland region through natural infrastructure that manages stormwater runoff.
AWS has partnered with the Katrineholm municipality and Sörmlands Vatten to develop the wetland, which is scheduled for completion in 2026.
“This groundbreaking represents more than just a water management solution, it's about creating lasting environmental benefits for the Katrineholm community,” says Clare Biddle, Senior Manager for Energy and Water at AWS in Europe, Middle East and Africa.
“By supporting natural infrastructure that helps manage stormwater while creating new habitats, we're demonstrating our commitment to being a good neighbour and responsible water steward.”
Addressing the water challenge
The wetland site sits near Lake Näsnaren, an EU Natura 2000 protected area that supports species including the Marsh Harrier and Bittern. The project will function as a natural filter system, processing stormwater before it enters these sensitive ecosystems.
Such a concept originated from a 2020 municipal pilot study that identified the need for buffer zones to redirect stormwater from urban areas at risk of flooding. Climate change has intensified both pollution and overfertilisation risks in the region.
“Breaking ground at Djulö Wetland marks the start of a long-term investment in nature and climate resilience,” says Maja Larsson, Project Manager at the Municipality of Katrineholm. “This has been made possible through a successful collaboration with Amazon, a partnership turning sustainability goals into real impact.”
Göran Dahlström, Mayor of Katrineholm, explains the project's significance for municipal infrastructure. “AWS’s continued investment in Katrineholm, and their commitment to the environment, will bring many benefits to the area.
“Thanks to their support, we've been able to accelerate the launch of this project which will help enable sustainable growth for the city.”
The wetland will incorporate walking and cycling trails, wildlife observation points and outdoor learning facilities for educational institutions and researchers. These features ultimately seek to transform the infrastructure project into a community asset beyond its primary water management function.
“We see similar challenges in many Swedish cities and the collaboration with AWS has helped us deal with this quicker and better than we otherwise would have,” explains Linda Aldebert, Environmental Strategist for Katrineholm.
“The wetland will not only help us protect the city from surges but also reduce pollution in our local lakes.”
Building data centres into conservation projects
The Katrineholm wetland forms part of AWS’s portfolio of 28 water replenishment projects worldwide. These initiatives target the return of more than nine billion litres of water annually to local communities.
“We are deeply committed to being good members of our communities and doubling down on preserving freshwater resources is one of the ways we can demonstrate that,” shares Kevin Miller, Vice President of Global Data Centers for AWS.
“By significantly expanding our recycled-water infrastructure, we’re aiming to advance technological innovation while still prioritising environmental stewardship.”
AWS has operated data centres in Katrineholm since 2018, with the company’s Swedish facilities utilising direct evaporative cooling systems that depend on outside air for 95% of annual operations, minimising water consumption for cooling purposes.
Water usage occurs only during peak temperature periods to maintain cooling efficiency.
Manuel Bohnet, Head of Enterprise at AWS Nordics and Baltics, positions the new project within the company’s community engagement strategy. “AWS is committed to building a sustainable business for our customers, communities and the world and water conservation is a key part of that.
“As proud members of the Katrineholm community since we built our first data centre here in 2018, we are excited to support the local environment and provide new recreational opportunities for the community.”
AWS operates water projects across multiple continents, including partnerships with Umatilla, Oregon, where recycled cooling water supports agricultural irrigation. The company has implemented rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge systems in India and Indonesia, alongside watershed restoration programmes in Cape Town and São Paulo.
“AWS’ new initiative will support communities by easing pressure on local water systems while meeting the needs of the rapidly growing AI economy,” says Howard Carter, President of Water Environment Federation. “As part of our strategy to advance the circular water economy, the Water Environment Federation encourages public-private collaboration to drive innovative water solutions.”
Amazon maintains its position as the world's largest corporate renewable energy purchaser and targets 100% renewable energy operations by 2025, five years ahead of its original 2030 timeline.
The company co-founded The Climate Pledge in 2019, committing to net zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Howard adds: “AWS’s commitment to recycled water exemplifies how the private sector can work with communities to build a more resilient water future.”
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