Finland launches criminal probe into Google’s forest clearing for data center

 Finnish police have launched a criminal investigation into Google's Finnish subsidiary for clearing 330 hectares of forest in Muhos and 200 hectares in Kajaani before completing mandatory environmental impact assessments.

Authorities are investigating potential violations of the Water Act and environmental damage from drainage and water management issues at the construction sites.

The Supervisory Agency ordered Google to halt work at both sites on October 6, 2026, after the scale of logging became public.

Ecologists estimate Google cleared approximately 400,000 trees total across both locations for planned AI data center facilities.

The controversy highlights growing global opposition to data center construction over environmental concerns, water usage and electricity demands....<<<Read More>>>...