Stop Blaming AI. Start Holding Data Center Operators Accountable

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How voters, communities and elected representatives can shape data centre regulation and make AI infrastructure work in the public interest.

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- AI's environmental and social effects are the result of political and planning decisions, not the technology itself.

- Data centres should face enforceable rules covering energy, water, emissions, noise, infrastructure costs and community impact.

- Planning approvals should include transparency, independent regulation, meaningful penalties and regular permit reviews.

- Communities should have formal rights to information, consultation, oversight and fair economic benefits.

- Elections matter because elected representatives and public bodies ultimately determine what gets approved and on what terms.

- Citizens can act by checking planning applications, questioning candidates publicly and voting for representatives who support stronger safeguards.