Texas Bitcoin mines may be affecting the health of nearby residents. Although there is no direct evidence, Dr. Michael Osborne said there could be negative effects. Specifically, Dr. Keith Darrow said health concerns have increased by about 150% since last year.
Marathon Digital owns a large bitcoin mining facility in Texas that causes constant, loud noise noises for nearby residents.
Many of them are starting to get more ear infections and feel generally unwell, and they believe Marathon Digital’s farms are to blame.
The BBC interviewed local residents and questioned Dr Michael Osborne and Dr Keith Darrow, who said that while no direct link had been found, the constant noise could theoretically affect health and that there had indeed been a 150% increase in doctor visits since last year.
What about for the local residents?
Many people have complained that the constant noise affects not only humans but also animals, making them feel unwell.
One couple said they too were affected, with their son suffering from otitis media (ear infections) three times in one year.
Another local resident, who lives just a few hundred metres from the bitcoin farm, likened the noise levels to having a vacuum cleaner running under a blanket, and showed a video to demonstrate how loud it is.
Doctors’ opinions on potential impact of Bitcoin farms
Of course, a direct link between fatigue and Bitcoin mining has never been proven, but Dr. Michael Osborne, a researcher and physician at Massachusetts General Hospital, said:
“It is entirely possible and understandable that prolonged exposure to these types of stressors can have adverse health effects.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Keith Darrow noted a significant increase in the number of cases.
“We’ve seen a significant increase in the number of patients complaining of noise this summer, about 100-150% higher than last year.”
At present, noise levels have been reduced to approximately 70 dB and have been noticed by local residents, but they are still unhappy with the noise levels and are demanding that Marathon Digital reduce them further.
Meanwhile, the company claims it adheres to the highest health and safety standards and is investing millions of dollars to cut volumes.
Conclusion
Bitcoin mining is no different from any other manufacturing business and requires consideration of the impact of its operations on location and other factors.
Hopefully, Marathon Digital will take all possible measures to prevent residents from having to deal with the problem if it is indeed a bitcoin farm causing it.
