Food & Water Watch

The tech industry is struggling with data center development because it lacks political expertise for local battles, such as acquiring water rights and land use permits. Local opposition has resulted in hundreds of billions of dollars of potential projects being delayed or blocked, with some states like New York banning the construction entirely. This structural problem requires the industry to win countless small fights across America instead of focusing solely on policy debates in Washington.

The EPA has delayed its re-assessment of nitrates in drinking water, which was initially suspended in 2019 and restarted under the Biden administration. Scientists and health advocates warn that outdated nitrate thresholds may not protect public health, as new research links lower levels to cancer and other illnesses. The Trump administration eliminated the EPA office responsible for the assessment, raising concerns about weakened health protections.

Residents of Hazle Township, Pennsylvania, oppose a proposed 15-building data center complex on a coal-rich plateau, prompting the township to vote for an 180-day pause on data center applications. State legislators introduced a bill to block data center development for three years, reflecting broader resistance to such projects due to environmental and health concerns, particularly in areas with a history of industrial pollution.

Rally attendees criticized Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro for perceived close ties to the data center industry, particularly a $20 billion Amazon investment. Critics, including Colby Wesner of Concerned Citizens of Montour County, argued that records revealed 'incredibly cozy' relationships between Shapiro's administration and Amazon. Opponents also linked data center growth to resource-hungry demands and potential tax exemptions, drawing comparisons to fracking's environmental impacts.