Beyond Toxics Takes On Data Centers
A local nonprofit, Beyond Toxics, has launched a signature drive to oppose a potential data center in the Eugene, Oregon area. The City of Eugene is reviewing land use codes to determine if a data center would be permitted at the former Hynix semiconductor plant. Concerns include energy and water use, noise pollution, and environmental impacts, mirroring a growing national movement against such developments.
A local nonprofit, Beyond Toxics, has initiated a signature drive to express opposition to the potential establishment of a data center in the Eugene, Oregon area. This action coincides with the City of Eugene's ongoing review of its land use code to ascertain whether a data center facility could be permitted at the former Hynix semiconductor plant located in West Eugene.
The organization highlights various concerns, including the significant energy and water consumption associated with data centers, potential noise pollution, and broader environmental impacts. A representative from Beyond Toxics noted that communities are reporting physical symptoms like headaches, nausea, and dizziness due to the constant droning from servers, cooling fans, and generators.
The opposition in Eugene is part of a broader, growing movement across the United States. Other cities in Oregon, such as Hillsboro and Salem, along with all of Clackamas County, have already enacted moratoriums on data center development.