Data centers cause a significant loss of clean water to the humanity, and they are on the rise in Kentucky. These facilities are rapidly occupying land that could otherwise be used for farming, and they are contributing to air pollution. It is essential to understand that data centers, though necessary in our digital age, must not come at the cost of our environment and health. These centers represent corporate greed and profit without considering the community and environmental costs involved.

The rapid proliferation of data centers across Kentucky poses a serious threat to our natural resources, particularly water, which is already under stress. According to a 2016 report by the National Resources Defense Council, data centers can consume as much as 50 million gallons of water per year. When scaled up, the cumulative effect on local water supplies can be devastating, leading to shortages and impacting both agricultural productivity and everyday community needs.

These centers produce carbon emissions as well which exacerbate climate change. A United Nations report on climate action shows that the technology sector already accounts for approximately 2% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Without proper regulation and strategic planning, this figure could increase dramatically. This further justifies the necessity for comprehensive environmental impact assessments before issuing new permits.

Kentucky’s rich farmlands have long been the backbone of its economy and culture. Converting these lands into data center hubs not only jeopardizes our agricultural heritage but also endangers food security. It is critical that we preserve our farming communities and rural landscapes that provide so much benefit.

We need immediate action from Governor Andy Beshear and the Kentucky state government to impose a moratorium on all new data center permits until thorough and transparent environmental impact assessments can be conducted. These studies should evaluate potential effects on water resources, agricultural land, air quality, and community well-being, and include public input and expert analysis.

By signing this petition, you stand with us in calling for a responsible and sustainable approach to infrastructure development. Join us to ensure that Kentucky’s natural resources and communities are protected for current and future generations. Sign this petition to demand that Governor Beshear pauses all new data center permits until comprehensive impact studies are completed. Your signature matters. Sources of Data centers being built in Kentucky: https://www.wsmv.com/2026/01/20/massive-data-center-is-being-pushed-blink-you-miss-us-kentucky-town-locals-are-pushing-back/ https://www.wdrb.com/news/large-scale-louisville-data-center-project-advances-despite-community-protest/article_843c2208-7581-4d72-872c-b0e74418165e.html https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8bHFSAE/   Sources of farm owners refusing to sell their land in Kentucky to potential data center buyers: https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/kentucky-data-center-mason-county-maysville/ https://local12.com/newsletter-daily/gallery/northern-kentucky-family-declines-26-million-bid-data-center-plans-advance-maysville-ai-tech-technology-construction-farm-farmland-property-deal-purchase-sell-google-meta-amazon-mason-county-market-value-cincinnati?photo=1 https://www.lex18.com/news/covering-kentucky/mason-county-mother-daughter-reject-millions-as-data-center-land-dispute-continues   https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8bX5XBa/