Slough's emissions surged, becoming UK's pollution hotspot

Slough, a town near London, has experienced a 52% surge in commercial emissions since 2005, becoming the UK's fastest-growing pollution hotspot. This increase contrasts sharply with emission reductions seen across most of the country. The rise in Slough's emissions is attributed to the proliferation of data centers, with over 30 currently operating in the area. These centers, crucial for the digital economy, have significantly increased the town's carbon footprint. Government data reveals that the majority of UK local authorities have reduced emissions. Slough's council is concerned, while the Data Centre Alliance points to consumer demand as the primary driver of increased energy use.