Data centers now have a $25 billion annual pollution bill, mostly in Texas and Virginia

A new study calculates the environmental cost of US data centers. They cause about $25 billion in air pollution and greenhouse gas damages each year, mostly in Texas and Virginia.

For years, the environmental cost of data centers was a vague concern. This paper puts a specific dollar amount on it, making it much harder for local governments and utilities to ignore. It also shows where the problem is worst, giving specific states a reason to act.