Although Nvidia deactivated the restriction for mining with its graphics cards, the truth is that cryptomining farms have not disappeared. There are places where they are seriously suffering the consequences of this type of industry. Elk County, Pennsylvania is experiencing enormous noise pollution due to activity at a gas plant in the region.
As pointed out by Capital & Main, a group of cryptominers called Diversified Production has taken over the abandoned facility and is making use of the engine that connects to the gas well. Being able to use the electrical network, it is the fossil fuels that are feeding the place with energy, causing a deafening noise. Not only is this the big problem, but the company has started working on the well without having the necessary permits to do so.
“The company is required by law to obtain DEP plan approval [Departamento de Protección Ambiental] prior to installation and operation of air pollution sources,” says Tom Decker, community relations coordinator at DEP’s Northwest Regional Office. “Installation of equipment without plan approval could result in DEP enforcement action“warns the person in charge.
Diversified Energy Company PLC is the name of the parent company that owns this division and has been tasked in recent years with buying thousands of poorly producing oil and gas wells. Charles McPhedran, lead attorney for the environmental association Earthjustice, says, “We are a state that has seen many ill effects from coal and gas, and we don’t need a new way to use fossil fuels.”
Environmental groups indicate that it is being very difficult to quantify the amount of gases and pollution broadcast by the platforms due to their remoteness and difficult access. On behalf of Diversified, a spokesperson has indicated that “Diversified is proud of the responsible stewardship model we have built, where we focus on improving and managing producing oil and natural gas wells from acquisition to retirement.”
Regarding noise, several localities are trying to put restrictions. The municipality of St. Mary has already issued an ordinance that any crypto mining prospect will have to be at least 30 meters from a property or street. In addition, they will have to respect the maximum noise levels allowed.
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