Elon Musk's artificial intelligence company, xAI, is accused of substantial air pollution in Memphis, Tennessee, stemming from its massive supercomputer, Colossus. The Southern Environmental Law Center revealed that xAI operates at least 35 portable methane gas turbines without necessary permits, potentially generating significant toxic and carcinogenic emissions. This contradicts claims from Memphis Mayor Paul Young, who stated that only 15 turbines are in use.
Environmental groups and community residents, particularly in historically Black neighborhoods, are raising concerns about the health impacts of this pollution, citing high rates of asthma and cancer in the area. Thermal imaging further supports claims of numerous turbines operating simultaneously. The lack of transparency and public oversight is a central point of contention.
Anonymous fliers downplaying the pollution have been distributed, claiming the turbines are 'cleaner tech' and 'minor' polluters. However, both the EPA and Shelby County Health Department deny issuing permits for these generators. State Representative Justin Pearson denounced the fliers as misinformation and urged community members to attend a public hearing to address these issues.
xAI, along with Mayor Young and the Shelby County Health Department, have not responded to requests for comment regarding the accusations and the misinformation campaign.
A public hearing with the health department is scheduled to address the controversy. The situation highlights the environmental impact of large-scale AI infrastructure and underscores concerns about corporate accountability and environmental justice in the context of technological advancements. xAI's expansion plans in Memphis further exacerbate these concerns.