06/16/2026
With problematic PFAS or forever chemicals, used to cool the computers
While data centers, in their current form, are relatively new, the environmental toll is becoming clearer every day. They suck up municipal drinking water, create emissions through the use of generators, and are often incongruous with the surrounding areas where they're placed. Now, there's another factor that makes these huge buildings problematic: PFAS or forever chemicals, which are used to help cool the computers.
✍️ Tom Cassauwers
📸 High-voltage transmission lines provide electricity to data centers in Ashburn, Loudoun County, Virginia. | Photo by Ted Shaffrey/AP
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