Google faces possible criminal liability for illegal forest clearing in Finnish data-centre project
Experts say Google could be criminally liable after clearing hundreds of hectares of forest for a data-centre in Muhos and Kajaani without a completed environmental impact assessment.
Finland’s Licensing and Supervision Authority (LVV) has ordered Google’s Finnish subsidiary, Tuike Finland, to stop all preparatory work at its data‑centre projects in Muhos and Kajaani after it was found that more than 300 hectares of forest were cleared before the required environmental impact assessment (YVA) was completed. The agency noted that large‑scale clear‑cutting over 200 hectares must be preceded by a YVA, a condition that was breached.
Google has submitted a written response to the LVV asserting its understanding of the applicable laws. Meanwhile, Oulu police have opened a preliminary investigation into the logging activities following a citizen’s request, and the agency has warned that non‑compliance could lead to administrative enforcement. The case has drawn criticism from environmental groups and highlighted the challenges tech firms face in meeting Finnish environmental regulations.
How this was covered
- Left-leaning outlets covered this 50h later
- Left-leaning coverage is the most divided on this story
Why it matters
The dispute shows how large tech projects can clash with Finland’s environmental safeguards, affecting forests, water management and regulatory compliance.
How this story developed
- Oct 1 Google's Finnish unit cleared 330 hectares for data centre without required impact study
- Oct 14 Police have launched a preliminary inquiry into the logging after the LVV’s halt order.
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