An unassuming Texas town is embroiled in an unexpected health crisis, stemming from an unusual source: Bitcoin mining. Residents of Granbury, Texas, have reported a slew of medical issues, which they believe are linked to the relentless noise pollution from a nearby Bitcoin mining facility owned by Marathon Digital Holdings.
In December 2023, small business owner Sarah Rosenkranz endured a harrowing five-day migraine. Her daughter, Indigo, had earlier complained of a severe earache. Neither connected the symptoms to the low hum that had enveloped their lives until Sarah attended a town hall in January 2024. There, she found many residents suffering from headaches, vertigo, fainting spells, and nausea, all attributing their ailments to the persistent noise from the Bitcoin mine.
The mine, consisting of 163 metal containers housing 30,000 computers, emitted noise levels exceeding legal limits. Over several months, TIME interviewed more than 40 residents who experienced health issues they associate with the mine. Hypertension, heart palpitations, and migraines were common. Though major studies on the health impacts of living near Bitcoin mines are lacking, prolonged noise exposure is known to cause cardiovascular and other health problems, says ENT specialist Salim Bhaloo.
The noise pollution isn't limited to humans. Local pets and even plant life have suffered. Residents reported dogs developing anxiety and hair loss, while a centuries-old oak tree suddenly died. Quantifying these effects is challenging, but anecdotes from the community paint a grim picture.
Hood County Constable John Shirley, who has taken numerous decibel readings, noted the noise levels often surpassed 90 decibels, akin to a lawnmower or chainsaw. Despite issuing citations for disorderly conduct, the fines are minimal compared to Marathon's significant earnings. The company plans to transition to quieter cooling methods by the end of 2024.
Granbury's plight highlights broader challenges. With data centers using more U.S power, the Bitcoin mining and AI industries are on the rise. Local governments face difficulties regulating noise and pollution, as seen with Texas' high decibel limits. The state's pro-cryptocurrency stance, supported by Governor Greg Abbott, prioritizes industry growth over community well-being.
As the Granbury mine's computational power increases, residents continue to struggle. While Marathon Digital asserts it didn't initially operate the mine or know about noise issues, the community feels left to contend with the fallout of Bitcoin's lucrative, yet disruptive presence. The Granbury experience could foreshadow similar scenarios in other towns as digital economies expand.
"We’re living in a nightmare," says Sarah Rosenkranz, summing up the town's distress as it battles this modern-day dilemma.