Momentum Building Against Data Center Development

A coalition exceeding 230 organizations, such as Food & Water Watch, Physicians for Social Responsibility, and Greenpeace, is advocating for a halt in constructing new data centers on American soil. This call to action implores legislative bodies to instate stricter guidelines to control escalating energy costs, excessive water consumption, and increased pollution levels.

Community and Environmental Concerns

In a letter addressed to Congress, these groups expressed grave concerns over the unchecked expansion of data centers that are intensifying the rush for AI and cryptocurrency capabilities. This proliferation of facilities is seen as a disruptive force affecting communities nationwide, posing risks to economic stability, environmental health, and water resources.

Many communities are making headway in their push to prevent the advancement of data center projects. From March to June this year, around 20 such undertakings were either halted or indefinitely postponed. The pressure from rising electricity costs, partly attributable to these centers, is pushing energy companies to rely on solutions that could worsen global warming.

Impacts on Natural Resources

There's a looming concern related to the potential water consumption of AI data centers. By 2028, these facilities could consume as much water as 18.5 million households in the United States use indoors, according to warnings from Food & Water Watch.