In a bold move challenging environmental justice, the NAACP has escalated pressure on Memphis officials to shut down Elon Musk’s xAI data center, citing significant health risks to the local Black community.

The civil rights organization has formally requested that the Shelby County Health Department and Memphis Light Gas and Water halt operations at the Colossus facility, located in South Memphis’ historically Black Boxtown neighborhood. Their concerns center on the facility’s gas turbines, which allegedly emit hazardous air pollutants far exceeding Environmental Protection Agency limits.

Specifically, the NAACP’s letter highlights dangerous levels of formaldehyde and nitrogen-oxide emissions from the 35 operational gas turbines. Despite xAI’s claims, city officials have permitted the facility to operate without proper permitting for over a year.

The environmental justice implications are stark: the Boxtown neighborhood already experiences cancer risks four times the national average. By allowing xAI to continue operations, local authorities are potentially exacerbating existing health disparities in a community already marginalized by systemic inequalities.

The NAACP’s intervention represents a critical stand against what they perceive as corporate disregard for community health. Their demand is clear: either completely cease operations or face strict regulatory citations for clean air law violations.

As tech companies continue expanding their infrastructure, this case underscores the importance of holding corporations accountable for their environmental impact, particularly in vulnerable communities. The outcome could set a significant precedent for future tech development and environmental justice efforts nationwide.