Protesters continue pushing for moratorium on data centers
Protesters gathered in east Charlotte to advocate for a moratorium on data center development, citing environmental concerns and potential "environmental classism." The Charlotte City Council is currently weighing a 150-day moratorium to assess the impacts of data centers on the community and is expected to vote next week.
Protesters demonstrated in east Charlotte, North Carolina, on Thursday morning, advocating for a moratorium on new data center developments. The action comes as the Charlotte City Council deliberates a proposal for a temporary halt on approving data centers, seeking more information on their environmental and community impacts.
Residents like Gustavo Toro characterized the rapid development as "environmental classism," "hostile architecture," and "redlining." The protest took place near a 122-acre site proposed by PowerHouse Charlotte, which plans up to five two-story data center buildings. Environmental scientist Kibri Everett highlighted that this would be the third data center within a four-mile radius, emphasizing the lack of comprehensive assessments on environmental conditions, infrastructure burdens, and cumulative impacts.
Charlotte City Councilman JD Mazuera Arias supported the proposed 150-day moratorium, explaining it as a necessary pause to ensure city policies align with current realities and residents' needs, rather than an anti-development stance. East Charlotte resident Antoinette Mingo stressed the importance of involving local residents, who are directly affected, in the council's decision-making process. The Charlotte City Council is scheduled to vote on the moratorium next week.