This EPA proposal on data centers could leave the public in the dark about air pollution
A plan by the Environmental Protection Agency could make it harder for the public to learn about and comment on proposed AI data centers that have sparked backlash in communities across the United States and transformed the midterm election landscape . The EPA proposal would eliminate a federal requirement that states notify the public and seek comment before issuing air pollution permits for…
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing a change that could make it more difficult for the public to learn about and comment on proposed AI data centers, which have sparked controversy across the United States and influenced the midterm elections. Currently, states are required by the EPA to notify the public and seek comment before issuing air pollution permits for data centers and other industrial facilities.
However, the proposed EPA change would eliminate this federal requirement, allowing states to waive public notice conditions for permitting. Critics argue this move could prevent residents from being informed about proposed data centers and prevent them from voicing concerns before construction begins. Mike Koerber, a former EPA deputy director, stated that this proposal continues the Trump administration's disregard for the principle of transparency in environmental matters.
If finalized, the plan could result in communities being unaware of new data centers and industrial emissions nearby, while other states maintain oversight. Critics fear that states with weak or no public comment requirements could expedite permits without public input. Keri Powell, a senior attorney for the Southern Environmental Law Center, emphasized that communities should have the opportunity to weigh in on potentially harmful projects before they are approved.
An EPA spokesperson countered that the proposal allows states to determine their permitting process for minor sources of air pollution, which include data centers. The spokesperson clarified that the plan does not alter federal emission standards or weaken environmental protections; instead, it aligns the national program with the Clean Air Act language.
The EPA is expected to finalize the rule next year. President Donald Trump supports data centers, even as opponents criticize them and communities try to block them, arguing that they are crucial for the U.S. to compete in the AI race against China.
Written by urgent.news from Fast Company's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
