3 chapters across the catalog
Data Center Water Consumption, Environmental Impact, PFAS
Data centers operated by Meta, Google, and Amazon are criticized for their massive water consumption, with some using up to 30 million gallons to stay cool. Reports indicate that local wells are running dry as a result. Additionally, concerns are raised about wastewater contamination involving "forever chemicals" (PFAS) and heavy metals that disrupt local treatment facilities.
Residents in the Texas Hill Country, specifically north of San Antonio in Bulverde and Kerrville, are facing a severe drought as residential wells run dry. Local water haulers from Canyon Lake have warned of impending Stage 3 restrictions that would halt water deliveries. In response to a listener's "SOS" request, a traditional "rain stick" ceremony is performed to symbolically encourage rainfall to replenish the regional aquifer.
The hosts discuss reports that the Bush family has purchased significant land holdings in Paraguay, specifically over the Guarani Aquifer. While some speculated the land was for a post-revolutionary retreat, the hosts characterize it as a strategic investment in water resources. They compare the move to the plot of the film Chinatown.
