Google Ordered to Halt Finnish Data Center Work Over Environmental Concerns

Google has been ordered to temporarily halt construction on two data centers in Finland due to environmental concerns. The Finnish Licensing and Supervision Authority (LVV) issued a notice requiring Google to suspend preparatory measures that significantly alter the environment at the sites in Muhos and Kajaani by October 23. The company has reportedly felled 330 hectares of forest in Muhos and logged nearly 200 hectares in Kajaani without completing the required environmental impact assessments (EIA).

The LVV stated that Google had proceeded with extensive preparatory work, including tree removal and road construction, before finalizing the EIA. Tommi Muilu, head of the environmental department at LVV, emphasized that these measures would change the environment and required proper assessment. Google has until October 23 to submit a written explanation.

In response, Google acknowledged the concerns and admitted falling short of its own standards. The company stated it acted in good faith under the Forestry Act and implemented measures to protect high-value areas. Google also plans to plant trees across 130 hectares at Muhos as part of its landscaping and biodiversity efforts.

The Finnish Union for Nature Conservation criticized the situation, describing the sites as reduced to "sand." Tapani Veistola, the union's chief operating officer, attributed the issue to the "overheated" market for data centers, which has led companies to expedite processes and overwhelmed local municipalities.