San José Residents Mobilize Against Uncontrolled Data Center Expansion, Citing Public Health and Environmental Concerns
Residents of San José, California, are actively organizing to resist the rapid and largely unchecked expansion of data centers within their city. The city has already approved 1.6 million square feet of data center development with minimal public input, and an additional 1.7 million square feet are currently under review. This significant buildout is raising alarms among community members due to potential adverse impacts on air quality, water resources, noise levels, and local heat generation. Ellina Yin, a leader of the grassroots 'I Love San Jose' coalition, has developed a 12-step plan to guide activists in their efforts to demand due diligence and greater public participation in the planning process. The coalition aims to create a platform for residents to track developments, learn about the implications, and engage with elected officials and city staff to protect public health.
