Data Centers Accused of Fueling Toxic 'Forever Chemical' Pollution

As of October 2025, data centers have come under increasing scrutiny for their potential role in fueling the spread of Pfas "forever chemicals" across the globe. These facilities, operated by tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, are essential for processing the world's digital traffic and powering the AI boom. However, their reliance on Pfas-containing cooling systems and disposal of Pfas-laden equipment has raised alarms among public health advocates.

Concerns have mounted over data centers' use of Pfas gas, or f-gas, which can be a potent greenhouse gas. Additionally, the disposal of Pfas-containing components from the centers' servers and networking equipment poses a significant challenge, as the chemicals cannot be fully destroyed. Meanwhile, the production of semiconductors housed in data centers also contributes to Pfas pollution around supporting manufacturing plants.

Despite these worries, the data center industry has claimed that the Pfas it uses causes minimal pollution. However, environmental groups argue that the lack of testing and reporting requirements means the true extent of the problem remains unknown. Legislators in some states, such as Minnesota, are now pushing for new laws that would mandate companies to disclose their Pfas usage and disposal practices.

As the US and China race to lead the global AI industry, there has been little political will to rein in the environmental impact of data centers. Advocates warn that this rapid expansion could come at a heavy cost, with Pfas pollution potentially adding to the already significant strain these facilities place on energy grids and water resources.