Erin Brockovich takes aim at data center secrecy

Environmental activist Erin Brockovich is embarking on a new initiative aimed at increasing transparency surrounding the construction of data centers and their effects on local communities. Known for her pivotal legal battle against Pacific Gas & Electric, which was immortalized in a film starring Julia Roberts, Brockovich has now turned her attention to the often-secretive world of data centers. Recently, she launched a website featuring a comprehensive map of data centers across the United States, which she describes as a 'work in progress.' This interactive resource includes inputs from community members who have reported issues related to nearby data center operations. In a recent Substack update, Brockovich revealed that after soliciting feedback on data center-related concerns in April, she amassed nearly 4,000 submissions within the first month. The predominant theme emerging from these submissions is a call for greater transparency. Brockovich noted that the primary concern expressed by residents—surpassing issues like noise, water consumption, and escalating utility costs—is simply the need for transparency. She clarified that her campaign is not an outright opposition to data centers or artificial intelligence. Instead, her focus is on the troubling trends highlighted by her map, such as projects that are announced only after permits have been acquired and developers who fail to engage with the community. Local officials have also signed non-disclosure agreements before residents are even informed about potential developments. Through this initiative, Brockovich aims to shine a light on the often obscured processes surrounding data centers, advocating for accountability and community engagement in decision-making.