Tech giant Amazon settles nitrate pollution case linked to its Oregon data centers
Amazon settles for $20.5 million over allegations its Oregon data centers contributed to nitrate pollution in groundwater, leaving residents with unsafe drinking water – though the company denies wrongdoing.
Nitrate contamination crisis in Morrow and Umatilla counties stems from agricultural runoff and industrial discharges, with Amazon accused of exacerbating the issue by releasing concentrated nitrate-laden wastewater from data center cooling processes.
Settlement funds will support clean water initiatives for affected households with private wells, administered by a court-appointed official, while litigation continues against other polluters like the Port of Morrow and agricultural corporations.
Amazon defends its operations, claiming it draws from the same water supply as locals, adds no nitrates and returns minimal water. But internal data shows its Oregon centers consumed 284 million gallons in 2024, much sourced from already contaminated supplies.
Broader implications highlight unchecked data center expansion nationwide, risking rural communities with water shortages and pollution, while legal battles signal growing demands for corporate accountability and stricter industrial water oversight.
Read Full Article: https://www.naturalnews.com/2026-04-08-amazon-settles-nitrate-pollution-case-in-oregon.html
