West Virginia Mom Leads Opposition Against AI Data Center Over Pollution Concerns

Shaena Crossland, a climate activist, is actively fighting the development of a large, diesel-powered AI data center slated for construction near an elementary school and her home in West Virginia. Working with "Moms Clean Air Force," Crossland mobilized hundreds of concerned residents, including scientists and environmentalists, to address the project's potential environmental impact. The group commissioned a study from Harvard University, which concluded that the "Ridgeline Project" would be a "major source of pollution," contradicting the assessment implicit in the permit issued by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection. Crossland expressed disappointment that the WVDEP, whose role is to protect the environment and residents, had issued the permit despite these findings, highlighting a perceived failure in their duty. The article positions Crossland's efforts as an inspiring example of citizen action when government agencies are perceived as not fulfilling their protective roles.