Our environment and resources in Douglas County, Georgia, are at risk due to the alarming rate at which data centers are being permitted and constructed in our area. As a concerned resident who sees the effects of these facilities daily, I urge you to consider the long-term impact these data centers have on our local community.

Data centers are notorious for their massive energy consumption and extensive water usage. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, data centers account for approximately 2% of total electricity use in the United States. In Georgia, where the climate can be particularly demanding, the amount of energy required to keep these centers operational is enormous.

Furthermore, the water usage by these facilities is staggering. In many cases, data centers use millions of gallons of water daily to keep their servers cool. This is water that could otherwise support our community's needs, especially during dry seasons when water resources are already strained.

Apart from the direct resource drain, data centers contribute significantly to local pollution. The immense structures and the necessary infrastructure increase noise and disrupt local wildlife habitats. The construction process itself can lead to the destruction of local flora and fauna, permanently altering the natural landscape of Douglas County.

Despite these serious environmental concerns, permits for new data centers continue to be approved with little oversight. It's time that we put a stop to this unchecked development and carefully assess the real cost these facilities have on our environment and resources.

We urge Georgia legislators, county commissioners, city councils, planning commissions, and state regulators to put the interests of citizens first by adopting a minimum two-year moratorium on new data center permits and construction approvals until comprehensive studies and public reviews have been completed.

Sign this petition to protect Douglas County, Georgia, from the invasive spread of data centers and to ensure a sustainable environment for future generations. Your support can make the difference in preserving our community's resources and environment.