The Unseen Cost of Data Centers: Communities Struggle Amid Water Scarcity

As data centers proliferate across rural America, local communities face challenges such as water contamination and scarcity. Residents like Beverly Morris in Fayette County, Georgia, attribute disruptions in their water supply to the construction of a Meta-owned data center. Despite claims from the company asserting no adverse effects, activism grows against the expanding footprint of data centers, prompting a conversation about their environmental impact and future sustainability.

When Beverly Morris retired in 2016, she envisioned a tranquil life in rural Georgia, surrounded by nature. However, her peace has been shattered by the construction of a large data center located just 400 yards from her home in Fayette County. As a facility owned by Meta (the parent company of Facebook), it is one among many rapidly emerging data centers designed to support the increasing demands of online services and artificial intelligence.

"I can't live in my home with half of my home functioning and no water," says Morris, who now resorts to using buckets to flush her toilet due to failing water pressure. She attributes the problems to sediment accumulation caused by the nearby data center's construction. While she continues to use the water for cooking and brushing her teeth, she remains apprehensive about its safety.

In response, Meta has distanced itself from responsibility, asserting that an independent groundwater study found no adverse effects from their operations. "Being a good neighbour is a priority," the company stated.

The reality of data centers extends beyond city limits; they represent a tangible infrastructure of the digital age, with over 10,000 facilities worldwide, predominantly in the U.S. While the increasing digital activity spurred by AI is driving unprecedented growth in this sector, it is causing greater friction with local communities. Activism against data center expansion has delayed or halted projects worth approximately $64 billion in the United States, according to advocacy group Data Center Watch.

The challenge extends beyond construction issues; data centers require substantial amounts of water for cooling. Notably, processor chips can reach extreme temperatures, necessitating effective cooling solutions. Millions of gallons are consumed daily, especially during peak usage periods, leading to concerns about water availability. Projections suggest AI-driven data centers could potentially consume a staggering 1.7 trillion gallons of water globally by 2027.

Georgia stands out as a hub for data center growth, with its humid climate providing a natural water source for cooling. However, activists argue that this development may deplete local water reserves and contaminate waterways. Concerns raised by local advocacy groups emphasize the need for accountability in construction and resource use.

Major tech companies, including Amazon Web Services (AWS), recognize the impact of their operations and have committed to better water management practices. AWS aims to replenish more water than it consumes by 2030, exploring options like rainwater harvesting and partnerships to enhance water quality.

However, the water use demand from data centers is evident even on an individual level. Each AI query can equate to the water contained in a small bottle, and as usage soars, the cumulative effect becomes alarming.

Experts agree that data centers are a cornerstone for modern infrastructure, with no signs of decline. While acknowledging the immediate strain on local communities, some, like Prof. Rajiv Garg from Emory University, suggest a future where technological systems are optimized for sustainability and efficiency.

As the sun hangs high over Georgia, enhancing the allure of establishing data centers, locals like Beverly Morris are left grappling with the real consequences of endless digital consumption. The question remains: how can we support the digital economy without undermining essential resources like water?