Canada is actively promoting the development of data centres across the nation, with projects emerging within and near both urban and rural areas. However, there is an alarming gap: there are currently no comprehensive regulations or legislation that ensure the safety and well-being of Canadians when it comes to these data facilities.

This plea for regulation is not an opposition to progress or economic opportunity. Instead, it is a call for the government to prioritize the health and safety of its citizens. It is unjust for the burden of fighting for safety standards to fall on individual communities who are forced to mobilize and campaign for their own protection. The Canadian government and provincial bodies have a duty of care and protection that they owe to every citizen.

Our team (Little Town Big Data), is from the town of Olds, Alberta, where a proposed AI Data Centre within our community's limits has caused significant concern among residents. This data centre, which includes a power plant, promises advancements and economic growth, but it also brings with it potential risks that cannot be ignored. Our community has been at the forefront, demanding that this project be halted and reconsidered until adequate safety measures are assured. Unfortunately, there is no contingency planning, emergency preparedness, or sufficient consideration for public health in the current proposal.

Every industry in Canada is governed by health and safety regulations and standards. What we are proposing is simply due diligence and a standard of care for Canadian communities so that what is happening in Olds doesn't have to happen anywhere else.

To ensure that the development of data centres does not come at the cost of public safety, we propose the following, non-exhaustive, actions:

1. Implementation of strict regulatory frameworks and safety standards specifically for data centres, including regular inspections and compliance monitoring.

2. Mandatory contingency planning and emergency preparedness protocols tailored to data centres, focusing on minimizing risks related to power plant operations.

3. Comprehensive health and environmental impact assessments to be conducted prior to the approval of any new data centre projects.

4. Ensuring transparent communication and community involvement in the decision-making process concerning data centre developments in their area.

These measures are crucial to protect the health, safety, and longevity of Canadians. By implementing these standards, Canada can lead in responsible and safe technological advancements.

We urge policymakers to act swiftly to develop and enforce these regulations. Please join us in advocating for safer data centre operations across Canada by signing this petition. We need your support to ensure a secure future for all Canadians.

PLEASE NOTE: Donations made on this platform do NOT go to Little Town Big Data directly -- while we appreciate contribution on change.org to fund this petition, please note that LTBD donations can still be made to our Go Fund Me