Environmental Harm of Data Centers and AI

The rapid expansion of proposed hyper-scale data centers across Minnesota is raising urgent environmental concerns that extend far beyond technology and convenience. These massive facilities require extraordinary amounts of electricity and water to operate, placing increasing strain on already limited natural resources. As some of the largest energy consumers in the state, data centers threaten Minnesota’s ability to meet its climate goals by driving up demand for fossil fuel–based power and slowing the transition to a clean energy future.

Water impacts are equally concerning. Data centers depend on continuous cooling systems that draw heavily from local water supplies, often in communities already facing water stress. In addition, the infrastructure supporting artificial intelligence—powered by these data centers—adds another layer of environmental cost. Every AI query, image generation, or automated process relies on energy- and resource-intensive systems, creating cumulative impacts that are largely invisible to everyday users.

Kathryn Hoffman, CEO of the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy (MCEA), will explore these issues in depth. She will share how MCEA is working to hold data center developers and AI corporations accountable through legal action and stronger environmental review processes. Kathryn will also outline practical ways individuals and communities can support responsible technology development, advocate for transparency, and protect Minnesota’s water, land, and climate.

Kathryn brings extensive experience to this conversation, leading MCEA’s efforts to challenge insufficient environmental review for proposed hyper-scale data centers in Lakeville, North Mankato, Hermantown, Pine Island, and Faribault. She is a graduate of the University of Minnesota Law School (magna cum laude) and holds a Master’s Degree in Public Policy from the Humphrey Institute.

Event Details:

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

7:00 PM

St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church

2175 1st St, White Bear Lake, MN 55110

Cohosted by Northeast Metro Climate Action & White Bear for Democracy

Sustainable Stillwater MN is sharing this event because understanding the environmental impacts of emerging technologies—like data centers and AI—is essential to building a resilient, climate-conscious future. This conversation directly connects to our mission to protect local water resources, reduce energy demand, and empower community members to engage in informed, systems-level solutions for sustainability.