From Futurism · Victor Tangermann · · 1m
Google Accused of Illegal Forest Clearing for Data Center
Google faces accusations of illegally clearing 300 hectares of forest in Finland for two new data centers.
In brief
Google faces accusations of illegally clearing 300 hectares of forest in Finland for two new data centers. Google cleared over 300 hectares of Finnish forest without completing environmental assessments for two data centers. Originally reported by Futurism.
AI Race Intensifies
As the AI race reaches white-hot temperatures, big tech companies are building pollution-belching data centers.
Google Clears Forest in Finland
Google cleared over 300 hectares, almost 500 football fields, for two new data centers in northern Finland.
Environmental Assessments Pending
Despite ongoing environmental assessments, Google’s contractors began clearing trees months ago, raising alarms with the Finnish Nature Conservation Association.
Finnish Conservation Association's Concern
The association’s chair, Hanna Halmeenpää, warned that local bird species and ecological connections may be impacted by the forest clearing.
Google Claims Compliance
Google maintains its tree felling met the Forestry Act and completed extensive environmental evaluations.
Finnish Regulators Request Suspension
The Finnish Nature Conservation Association asked regulators to suspend activities until environmental assessments conclude.
At a glance
Google cleared over 300 hectares of Finnish forest without completing environmental assessments for two data centers.
