Google and Microsoft face fresh criticism over AI data center plans

Google is accused of clearing 300 hectares of Finnish forest for an AI data center before an environmental-impact assessment was completed. Microsoft's wetland-restoration efforts around its data centers were called "lipstick on a pig," while residents in Texas and elsewhere push back against further construction.

• Google cleared 300 hectares of Finnish forest for a data center before assessment
• Critic calls Microsoft's data center plans "lipstick on a pig"
• Microsoft emissions rose 25% in 2025 due to data center expansion
• Texas residents sue over data center planned on parkland