Finnish Police Investigate Google Over Forest Clearing for Data Centers

Finnish police are investigating Google over the clearing of forest for data centers in Finland. The material available points to hundreds of hectares of forest cleared for the projects, with a headline framing that water issues were overlooked in the process. It does not spell out the specific allegations, who filed a complaint, or what offence police are examining.

The investigation comes as Finland has a lot riding on Google's plans. The company intends to invest about €13 billion in AI infrastructure in the country by 2028, its largest single investment in Europe. Data centers are planned in Muhos and Kajaani, as well as in Hamina and Vaala. In Hamina, Google has operated a data center in a former paper mill for years.

Supporters of the projects point to jobs and tax revenue, particularly in structurally weak regions such as Kainuu. The Finnish government stands by Google, according to a section heading in the piece, though the details of its position are not given.

What is clear is the tension between a major AI infrastructure build-out and its environmental footprint. Forest clearing and water use are at the center of the police inquiry, and the outcome could matter for how data center projects are permitted and carried out in the Nordics. Further details on the legal basis, the sites involved, and the timeline of the investigation are not included in the text available.