Amazon Stops Using NDAs in Data Center Approvals Amid Backlash
In response to growing backlash against its data center projects, Amazon Web Services CEO Matt Garman announced the company has stopped using nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) with government agencies seeking approval for new facilities. The move comes as communities and activists raise concerns over transparency in how these large-scale infrastructure developments are handled. Environmental activist Erin Brockovich highlighted NDAs as a key issue, noting they often prevent public awareness until projects are already underway. Garman also addressed four common criticisms of data centers: water consumption, rising electricity costs, pollution levels, and lack of community benefits. He cited Amazon's own report showing that direct data center water use accounts for just 0.5% of U.S. industrial usage—far less than other industries like golf courses or almond farming. However, experts argue these figures may not capture the full environmental impact from energy generation and chip manufacturing. The CEO warned against widespread moratoriums on large data centers currently being considered in over 100 locations across the United States, including a one-year pause recently announced by New York state.
Topics: Community Transparency Data Centers Environmental Concerns NDA Policy Change