Datacenters, essential for storing servers and networking equipment that manage global digital traffic, are facing scrutiny over their environmental impact, particularly in relation to clean energy transition and water consumption. The rising demand for these facilities, driven by the growth of artificial intelligence, has sparked concerns among public health advocates regarding potential pollution from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.”
Major tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon utilize PFAS in their operations. These compounds, often used in cooling systems and other equipment, can contribute to significant greenhouse gas emissions and may pose a greater climate risk than previously understood. Although no specific testing for PFAS pollution from datacenters has been mandated, there is increasing pressure on state lawmakers to require better reporting on chemical usage and emissions.
Concerns heightened following an announcement from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which indicated that it would expedite reviews of new PFAS and related chemicals used in datacenter operations. The datacenter industry contends that the PFAS utilized leads to minimal pollution, but environmental advocates argue otherwise. Experts stress that the lack of comprehensive study regarding PFAS in these facilities poses a significant risk, with potential long-term impacts not yet fully understood.
PFAS are linked to various serious health issues, including cancer and reproductive harm, and are notorious for their persistence in the environment. Advocates claim that datacenters contribute to both direct and indirect PFAS pollution, as chemicals are integral to their cooling processes and further waste challenges arise from semiconductor production.
Efforts are underway in states like Minnesota to enact legislation mandating transparency regarding chemical use in datacenter cooling processes. Lawmakers have sought clarification from tech companies on the chemicals used and disposal practices, but many remain unsatisfied with the responses received. There is a growing awareness of the necessity for regulations to protect community health and the environment as the demand for datacenters continues to rise.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/oct/04/pfas-pollution-data-centers-ai