Amid an ambitious plan to build a data center in Pecos County, Texas, Amazon is set to construct what could be the single biggest climate polluter in the U.S., according to The New York Times. The plant will burn natural gas and emit over 33 million tons of carbon dioxide annually – more than any other power plant in America.

This development comes as Amazon’s own reported emissions climbed by 16% last year, significantly straying from its pledge to eliminate carbon emissions by 2040. The company is reportedly backing the construction of massive natural gas plants to support its energy-hungry data centers, potentially exacerbating the issue.

Amazon has issued a statement affirming that the data center will not increase electricity costs for Texas residents. However, this move raises questions about the balance between technological advancement and environmental responsibility.

The spokesperson noted that while 'the world looks different now than when we co-founded the climate pledge,' Amazon's commitment remains unchanged. Yet, with its growing dependence on natural gas and data centers, there may be a chasm between ambition and action.