During the Microsoft Build software conference in San Francisco this week, protesters gathered at the entrance of the Fort Mason event center to hand out leaflets detailing the effects of data centers being built. Protester Amy Herman said the group’s viewpoint is not against technology but challenges balancing limited natural resources with big tech companies that do not want to be held accountable for managing climate change while chasing technological advancement. Microsoft responded that it "respects the right to peaceful protest." During the Microsoft Build keynote on Tuesday morning, CEO Satya Nadella said Microsoft would seek community permission to build data centers in the future, aiming to get approval by improving cooling systems and reducing water use, ensuring data centers do not increase electricity prices for locals, adding to "the tax base that funds local hospitals, schools, parks and libraries," and investing in AI training and non-profits. Nadella called the rapid buildout of data centers "extraordinary" and emphasized the importance of getting communities to buy into AI technologies, stating, "All this has to be real. And if that is the case, then we'll have permission. If it is not, you won't have permission; it's as simple as that."