The NAACP is urging local officials to take immediate action and halt operations at Colossus, the massive supercomputer facility operated by Elon Musk’s xAI in South Memphis. This call to action comes amid growing concerns over environmental and community health impacts linked to the facility’s operation.
In a strongly worded letter sent to the Shelby County Health Department and Memphis Light, Gas and Water, the civil rights organization criticized the oversight of the data center’s activities. They described the current situation as a “lackadaisical approach” and demanded an emergency order to stop xAI’s operations entirely. If such an order isn’t forthcoming, the NAACP insists authorities should at least enforce existing clean air laws and stop xAI from violating them.
A primary concern highlighted in the letter involves the gas turbines powering Colossus. Although xAI has applied for a permit to operate 15 turbines, the NAACP revealed that the company has been running at least 35 turbines over the past year without proper permits. City officials previously stated that permits weren’t required during the turbines’ initial year of use, but critics argue this leniency is unjustified given the environmental impact.
The turbines emit hazardous pollutants, including formaldehyde and nitrogen oxides, at levels that surpass EPA safety limits. The NAACP emphasized that these emissions pose serious health risks, especially for nearby residents.
Located near South Memphis’ historically Black Boxtown neighborhood, the Colossus facility’s proximity raises concerns about environmental justice. The NAACP pointed out that this pattern of industrial pollution disproportionately affects marginalized communities—areas that have already been burdened with higher cancer risks and health issues. Instead of addressing these longstanding problems, local authorities have allegedly allowed xAI to operate above the law, exacerbating community health concerns.
The letter was addressed to Michelle Taylor, the director of the Shelby County Health Department, who is set to leave her position for a new role as the commissioner of the Baltimore City Health Department. The NAACP’s message is clear: urgent action is needed to protect the health of South Memphis residents and hold xAI accountable for environmental violations.
As this situation unfolds, tech and community advocates are watching closely. Efforts continue to push for transparency and stronger regulation of powerful data centers like Colossus to ensure they do not compromise public health or environmental safety.
