Abstract

As internet use has skyrocketed in recent years with the artificial intelligence (AI) boom, so too has the construction and operation of data centers. The data center industry affects the environment on a global and local scale, from greenhouse gas emissions to noise pollution. The field of study surrounding the environmental consequences of data centers is growing, yet few articles focus on the local impacts of data centers, particularly public opinion about those impacts. My research examines public opinion about the data center industry in Loudoun County Virginia, also known as “Data Center Alley.” Through a survey of Loudoun County residents and content analysis of county and state government websites about the data center industry, my research sheds a light on the ways government messaging can affect public opinion. The results of my research reveal that the state and local government generally frame the industry in a positive light, often downplaying or completely leaving out discussion of environmental impacts. Additionally, survey participants’ awareness of the environmental impacts of the industry increased after reading background information about the impacts, while their support for the industry and local government decreased after reading background information. Thus, the government’s positive framing of the industry may contribute to a lower level of environmental awareness and higher support for the data center industry from Loudoun County residents. These results indicate that transparency from the government is an important factor in the public’s environmental awareness, and reveal that environmental governance and awareness are a cyclical process.

Advisor

Haider, Erum

Department

Environmental Studies

Publication Date

2026

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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