Washington State community groups call for data center moratorium

A coalition of more than 60 community groups across Washington State is advocating for a statewide moratorium on new data center developments. The call for action comes alongside a newly released report, authored by the coalition, which highlights concerns over the rapid pace of data center expansion and its impacts on local resources and communities.

The report acknowledges that big tech companies often cite job creation and economic growth as benefits. However, community members, including those interviewed from 28 different organizations like Columbia Riverkeeper, express worries about the lack of transparency and information regarding these large-scale data centers. They seek a greater public say in the development process and sound policy changes that prioritize communities and the environment.

The coalition's primary request is a statewide pause on data center construction to allow for a better understanding of the long-term environmental and societal impacts. Additionally, the group is pushing for changes to the tax incentives currently offered by the state to new data centers, arguing for a more equitable distribution of benefits and increased community voice in development decisions.