About Hyperscaled

The rapid expansion of large-scale data centers has led to substantial increases in energy and water demand. These developments pose emerging environmental and infrastructural challenges for communities across the southeastern United States, including Alabama. Hyperscaled examines the local and regional consequences of this growth, with particular attention to water use, energy consumption, and community-level impacts. Through a case study of the proposed “Project Marvel” development, the film documents residents’ efforts to obtain transparency and accountability regarding the environmental and social costs associated with hyperscale data center infrastructure. Hyperscaled is a 2025 Southern Exposure Film produced by the Alabama Rivers Alliance.

About the Panel

Following the screening, Charles Miller (Policy Director, Alabama Rivers Alliance) and Ryan Anderson (Staff Attorney, Southern Environmental Law Center) will facilitate a discussion on the environmental, legal, and policy dimensions of large-scale data center development. The panel will address current developments related to the proposed Project Marvel facility in Bessemer, recent policy discussions including a proposed moratorium in Birmingham, and broader implications for data center siting and regulation across Alabama. The discussion will also consider avenues for public engagement and community response to proposed data center projects.

Activities Statement: The purpose of all UAB Institute for Human Rights (IHR) programs, activities, and endeavors is to foster collaboration, scholarly exchange, and academic learning related to human rights. All are welcome to attend.