EPA lets data centers hide air pollution under new rule
us epa scraps public notice rule for air permits, allowing data centers to avoid scrutiny. communities near data centers may face increased pollution.
the us environmental protection agency epa is proposing to scrap a federal air pollution rule that requires public notice and an opportunity to comment when certain industrial sites apply for an air permit. this change could enable data center developers and other industries to break ground without giving nearby residents a say or warning that construction is planned. the epa's new source review permitting process, in place since the 1970s, applies to a wide range of facilities, including data centers and power plants. critics argue that the 'minor' label for sources of pollution is a misnomer, as these projects can have significant consequences for their neighbors. the change may affect communities near data centers, particularly those with 'minor' pollution sources.