Micron
On July 8, the Idaho Statesman explored Micron’s expansion into semiconductor production in the article “Micron asks Boise to annex 240 acres for AI-fueled expansion.” This article neglected to consider the downsides of this technological boom. We have the responsibility to ensure Micron benefits everyone in the Treasure Valley — workers, neighbors and the environment.
Although we keep hearing that Micron will create great jobs, data suggests otherwise. Nationally, production workers in semiconductor manufacturing earn just $45,000 a year on average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and can be exposed to hundreds of toxic chemicals, including carcinogens or reproductive toxins.
I’m particularly worried about the effect of this manufacturing on our local environment. I was born and raised in the Treasure Valley, and the Boise River has always been a place of joy and refuge for me. Now it’s noticeably dirtier, rocks coated in grime, and industrial development contributes to this. There is nothing stopping Micron’s new facility from adding to this problem by releasing PFAS (toxic forever chemicals) into our waterways or lands…