Finnish authorities have initiated a criminal probe into potential environmental law violations at a construction site in Muhos where Google subsidiary Tuike Finland operates. The investigation centers on allegations that the company cleared and drained approximately 330 hectares of forest before completing mandatory environmental impact assessments required by Finnish law. Police stated that preliminary findings indicate ambiguities and shortcomings in drainage and water management at the facility.
Earlier this month, Finnish environmental regulators ordered Google to suspend work at two sites—Muhos and Otanmäki—after the company failed to finalize environmental assessments prior to forest clearing operations. Environmental campaigners estimate that approximately 250,000 trees were felled at the Muhos location and 150,000 at Otanmäki. The Supervisory Agency, which oversees environmental permits, directed Google to halt all preparatory measures that alter the natural environment.
The datacentre projects are part of a broader €13 billion investment strategy by Google in Europe, which the company has characterized as its largest investment on the continent. Finland has attracted significant datacentre interest from technology companies due to its political stability, available land, and cool climate that reduces operational energy costs. Finnish authorities are currently reviewing applications for 145 new datacentres in various planning stages.
Google’s Finland country manager has apologized for the forest clearings but contended that the company acted based on its understanding of applicable legislation at the time. The Finnish government initially welcomed the investment, with Prime Minister Petteri Orpo stating in September that attracting such projects represented a top priority. However, the environmental concerns have triggered national debate about datacentre development impacts, with over 93,000 people signing a petition demanding enhanced regulation and environmental compensation. The controversy may influence parliamentary elections scheduled for April.
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