Criminal probe launched into Google's AI data center deforestation in Finland

What happened

Finnish police have launched a criminal investigation into Google's Finnish subsidiary Tuike Finland Oy over its AI data center project in Muhos. According to a police statement, the probe was opened after five complaints were received about the project and is backed by Finland's Licensing and Supervision Authority (LVV).

The allegations

The company is accused of suspected breaches of environmental law and environmental damage. Lesser offenses related to ambiguities and shortcomings in drainage and water management are also being investigated. Google representatives had previously publicly apologized for unauthorized forest clearings near Muhos that turned 816 acres of forest into mud.

The Otanmäki situation

According to the report, Google also moved ahead with data center development by clearing 500 acres of forest near Otanmäki. A Google representative told Reuters the company would cooperate with the police investigation and continue to focus on maintaining compliance at its sites.

Local reaction

Last week it was reported that wolves had descended on Finnish villages after their habitats were destroyed to make way for the data centers. Data center developments were already a thorny issue for locals due to concerns over construction and operating noise, pollution, utility competition and environmental damage. The report also notes the project could push electricity bills up by as much as 40%.

Why Finland?

Google sees Finland as an attractive location for data center development thanks to its cool climate, affordable power and government endorsement of AI projects. The company has also benefited from low population density and a populace with a low propensity to protest. Finnish government representatives have yet to comment on the case.