As a lifelong hunter and fisherman, I have always had a deep appreciation for the natural environment and the wildlife that inhabits it. The proposed construction of data centers in New Castle area, particularly in North Beaver and Mahoning townships, poses a significant threat to our natural surroundings and to the people who reside near these proposed sites.

Data centers, while crucial for supporting our digital infrastructure, have immense energy consumption demands, leading to increased carbon emissions, water usage, and pollution. According to a 2021 report from the International Energy Agency, data centers account for about 1% of global electricity demand, but their servers generate over 200 terawatt-hours of electricity per year, equivalent to the energy consumption of some medium-sized countries. This energy usage places pressure on local resources and contributes to a greater carbon footprint, negatively impacting the climate.

Moreover, data centers require significant amounts of water for cooling purposes. In an area like ours, where preserving natural resources is paramount, the strain on water supplies could have detrimental effects on both the environment and the community.

For evidence of these impacts, mediajustice.org provides detailed reports on how data centers have affected other areas in our country. Patterns of environmental degradation, specifically in rural and semi-rural communities, are well-documented. Communities across the nation have experienced increased noise pollution, habitat destruction for wildlife, and even health issues due to the chemical runoffs from construction and maintenance activities of data centers.

The presence of such facilities in the beautiful landscapes of New Castle would not only disrupt the ecological balance but could impair our quality of life and the joy of engaging with nature that so many of us cherish. This area has long been a sanctuary for those like me who treasure our outdoor spaces for hunting, fishing, and recreation.

I urge community members, environmentalists, and all those who value their natural heritage to stand with me in opposing the establishment of data centers in North Beaver and Mahoning townships. Let your voice be heard and help protect our environment for generations to come.

Sign this petition to demand that decision-makers reconsider the location of these data centers and prioritize sustainable, environmentally-friendly practices that protect our cherished landscapes and resources.