this post was submitted on 15 Jul 2026
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Fuck AI
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AI, in this case, refers to LLMs, GPT technology, and anything listed as "AI" meant to increase market valuations.
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Ooo I wrote a paper for a uni project and this issue came up and it is depressing. Data centers near black and brown communities do this exact practice all the time. Even if the electric grid can support the data center without issue, they will still turn on gas generators. With the sole purpose of adding additional pollution to the area, just to harm minorities. Meanwhile they will not do the same to white communities. It’s pure racism, through and through. It’s not just Musk, it’s every billionaire, it’s every data center owner.
That would mean they are wasting money, which is just about the most important thing not to do, so I doubt it.
Perhaps there is an explanation that is a bit more sensible. But I have zero data for data centers turbine use, let alone near minorities.
It could be strategic. Pollute the environment in poor communities that can't afford to fight it until it drives down property value, then buy the property and use it to generate even more profit.
Is this actually documented? It's not like there's a shortage of land
But the pollution they create is pretty much only CO2? So climate issue but not locally like NOx, SO2 or particulates.
and noise pollution and CH4 from fugitive emissions and heat
Okay, noise is a local issue. But much? I don't think their emissions matter locally. Let alone so much that it drives down property values.
It's not done with intent, just supreme neglect. Data centers that use this as a primary energy source shouldn't exist. Data centers that have these as a backup to grid power have a legitimate reason for it.
That is where you are, unfortunately, wrong. The generators may be used under the pretext of being incase the power grid fails. However even under circumstances where they shouldn’t need to be operated. And I shall repeat myself here, only seems to be done in black and brown communities to harm the environment in those specific areas. So, no. It is not “supreme neglect”, but done with intent and with prejudice to the minority groups who were already living in the area.
TLDR: No it’s racism, you shill.