We are petitioning for sustainability and environmental protection in South Jersey. We want to show our leaders that people, especially students, care about what is happening in our communities and want real change. By signing this petition, you are helping us speak up about environmental issues that affect our water, soil, and future.

Our goal is to slow down or prevent the construction of new data centers in nearby areas until their environmental impact is fully understood and addressed. Data centers can contribute to electronic waste and may involve chemicals, including PFAS, which are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily. These substances can enter soil and water and may affect ecosystems, wildlife, and human health.

 
Why
We want to protect our communities and the environment from potential harm. Some areas have already experienced environmental stress from large scale development, and we do not want to repeat those mistakes here. South Jersey is home to valuable farmland that provides food for our communities, and building data centers on this land can reduce space for agriculture and disrupt local ecosystems.

There are also concerns about pollution and long-term health risks if harmful substances enter the soil or water. We believe our community deserves clean resources, safe neighborhoods, and careful planning before major projects are approved. We want to be a voice for both people and the environment.

 
Why It Matters To Us
Data centers require a large amount of energy and water to operate. This can put pressure on local resources and make it harder to meet clean energy goals. It can also affect electricity demand and infrastructure in surrounding communities.

Environmental impacts are not always felt equally. Low income communities, rural areas, and communities of color are often more likely to be affected by large developments like this. This issue matters to all of us because it could impact any community, including our own.

We are students who care about our future. We believe that growth and technology should not come at the cost of our environment or our health. That is why we are asking for responsible decision making and stronger protections before more data centers are built.

Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City 

Jocelyn I, Elianny R, Ryan J, & Johann P