Technology

Datacenter developers are allegedly splitting their emissions across multiple minor permits to dodge major EPA air pollution reviews and public scrutiny. Environmental advocates point to projects in North Carolina, New Mexico, and Maryland where Amazon and others used this tactic, potentially exposing nearby residents to harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxide and particulate matter without proper oversight. Amazon denies wrongdoing, stating it appropriately obtained its permits.

Bill Gates said in media interviews that allowing AI to develop without safeguards and outside monitoring is "completely irresponsible" and could cause global harm, warning the technology is powerful enough to cause a billion deaths. He said he is willing to speak directly with President Donald Trump about his concerns and rejected Trump's dismissal of AI warnings as a "hoax," while arguing that monitoring for cyberattacks and bio-terrorism would not dramatically slow the industry.

British celebrities and creatives, including Elton John, Paul McCartney, and Kate Bush, successfully pressured the UK government to abandon plans allowing AI companies to use copyright-protected work without permission. The campaign, which featured protests, polling showing seven in 10 adults support royalty payments, and stunts like a silent album and an empty book, offers a warning to Australia as it considers similar reforms. Campaigners say Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese should resist watering down copyright law and "not squander his reputation by selling Australian creatives down the river."