Finland investigates Google over illegal deforestation for data centers

Finnish authorities have demanded that Google halt construction of two data centers in Muhos and Kajaani after the company and its contractor cleared over 1,000 acres of forest without environmental assessments. Locals in Kajaani report wolves entering the village after wildlife fled the cleared forest.

• Over 1,000 acres cleared and roughly half a million trees felled
• Construction proceeded without approvals or environmental assessments
• Google says it acted on its best understanding of the law at the time
• Kajaani residents report wolves entering the village after the clearing