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What happened
The rapid expansion of data centers in Latin America, driven by the AI boom, has sparked significant local opposition. Communities in some of the driest regions are concerned about the environmental impacts and resource consumption associated with these massive facilities. Governments, particularly in Chile and Brazil, are actively courting foreign investment for data centers, often at the expense of environmental regulations. Activists, like researcher Paz Peña, highlight the lack of transparency from both governments and corporations regarding the environmental assessments of these projects. In some cases, communities have taken legal action to demand information, citing the Escazu agreement, which promotes environmental transparency. The situation reflects a growing tension between technological progress and community rights, as residents seek to understand the implications of data centers on their local resources.
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Key insights
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Growing local opposition
Communities are increasingly resisting data centers due to environmental concerns.
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Demand for transparency
Activists are pushing for clearer information on resource consumption.
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3
Legal actions for information
Some communities are resorting to court to obtain data on environmental impacts.
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Corporate secrecy issues
Governments often cite corporate secrecy when denying information requests.
Takeaways
The resistance against data centers in Latin America highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability from both governments and corporations. As communities seek to protect their resources, the balance between technological advancement and environmental sustainability remains a critical issue.