Report Finds Data Centers' Air Pollution Linked to Lung Issues

Study cites health risks for communities living near multiple data centers

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A new report by Community & Environmental Defense Services founder Richard Klein found that emissions from data centers can cause breathing issues and premature deaths for people living within 0.6 miles or more of the facilities. The report states that risks increase when a home is near multiple data centers, which are necessary to support modern digital infrastructure but have drawn concerns over pollution and rising energy costs for nearby residents.

Why it matters

As the number of data centers continues to grow in many communities, this report highlights the potential public health impacts on neighboring residents, especially those living in close proximity to multiple facilities. The findings raise concerns about air quality and lung health that policymakers and data center operators may need to address.

The details

The report found that a single data center can pose negative health risks for people living at least 0.6 miles away, sometimes further. Risks increase when a home is near multiple data centers. The air pollution comes from data centers emitting nitrogen dioxide and tiny, inhalable particles that can harm people's lungs. According to the National Institute of Health, these tiny particles cause between 100,000 and 200,000 premature deaths each year.

  • The report was compiled by Community & Environmental Defense Services (CEDS) founder and president Richard Klein, who has been working in development-related concerns for 40 years.
  • Data centers are necessary to support the digital infrastructure that modern society relies on, but some people take issue with data center construction near their homes and schools, citing pollution and health concerns.

The players

Richard Klein

Founder and president of Community & Environmental Defense Services (CEDS), who has been working in development-related concerns for 40 years.

National Institute of Health

According to the National Institute of Health, the tiny inhalable particles from data centers cause between 100,000 and 200,000 premature deaths each year.

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What’s next

Klein recommends that states require public health assessments for neighboring communities before a data center is built.

The takeaway

This report highlights the need for policymakers and data center operators to address the potential public health impacts of data center emissions on nearby residents, especially those living in close proximity to multiple facilities. As the number of data centers continues to grow, finding ways to mitigate air pollution and energy cost concerns will be crucial.