A&WMA Data Centers 2026: A&WMA’s Data Center Insights and Innovation

Already numbering over 5000 and growing rapidly, US data centers house vast concentrations of networked computer servers supporting data science, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, and our overall use of the internet.  Major environmental concerns include direct emissions of air pollutants from routine and emergency power generation, cooling systems, noise, increased water use, zoning issues, waste management, energy transmission, and new power plant construction. States and local agencies seek to reduce local impacts and resolve land use conflicts, while still promoting economic development.

Submissions will centre on the following themes, while also considering additional relevant topics: air quality impacts, air emissions, power grid infrastructure and energy use.