Datacenter Developers Accused of Skirting US Pollution Rules

Environmental advocates are alleging that datacenter developers are manipulating the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) air pollution permitting process. The accusation centers on companies reportedly avoiding stringent emission controls and public scrutiny for their projects.

Under federal regulations, companies are required to obtain permits for emitting various pollutants. Environmental groups warn that some firms, particularly in the big tech sector, are circumventing “major” permit reviews. This is allegedly achieved by segmenting their emissions sources into multiple, smaller “minor” sources.

Such a strategy would allow projects to operate under less rigorous regulatory oversight, reducing the need for comprehensive environmental impact assessments and public input. Advocates contend this practice undermines the intent of federal pollution controls designed to protect air quality and public health.

What to watch: EPA response and potential regulatory changes regarding datacenter emissions.

Editor's note: The article clearly captures the allegations reported in the source.

This article is AI-generated and fact-gated. Original reporting: Guardian Environment