Silent Springs and AI Winters: Navigating the Environmental Impacts of AI Data Centers

My thesis explores how AI data centers affect local communities, focusing closely on the lived experiences of residents in Maricopa County, Loudoun County, and San Francisco County. Inspired by the stories of those directly impacted by issues like water shortages, noise pollution, and environmental injustice, I felt deeply moved to amplify community voices that are often overlooked. I'm most proud of developing the AIMSS framework, which emphasizes the importance of integrating local advocacy into decision-making, ultimately empowering residents to shape the future of their own communities. This project taught me the power of listening - how genuinely engaging with people's experiences can lead to more sustainable and just solutions.

Creators
Anisa Bhandari, SFS '25
Library Staff