Finland halts Google data center work over environmental violations

Finland has ordered a halt to construction work on two of Google's data center sites due to concerns over environmental compliance. The Finnish Supervisory Agency (LVV) demanded that Tuike Finland, the company representing Google, immediately suspend all preparatory measures that could alter the environment significantly at the Muhos and Kajaani locations. The agency is investigating whether Tuike Finland cleared hundreds of hectares of forest without conducting the required environmental impact assessments.

The investigation follows reports that nature sites intended for preservation were logged in a deforested area exceeding 300 hectares. Tuike Finland has been instructed to provide an explanation and outline its next steps by October 14. Failure to comply could result in enforcement proceedings.

Google has acknowledged its shortcomings and expressed a commitment to addressing the concerns. Sondre Ronander, a Google spokesman, stated that the company had "acted in good faith" and would study the LVV's findings. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance landscaping and biodiversity, including tree planting across 130 hectares at the Muhos site.

Finland's Minister of the Environment and Climate, Sari Multala, described the situation as a serious matter. She noted that the environmental assessment issues could lead to delays in Google's data center projects, which are part of a €13 billion investment in Finland's digital infrastructure over the next two years.