Finland orders halt to work on two Google data centres
Finnish authorities have ordered a halt to building work at two planned Google data centres amid concerns over the clearance of more than 300 hectares of forest.
Finnish authorities have halted construction at two planned Google data centres due to concerns over the deforestation of over 300 hectares of forest. These sites are part of Google's €13bn investment in Finland, announced less than a month ago as the company's largest single investment in Europe. The Finnish Supervisory Agency (LVV) ordered measures related to the sites in Muhos and Kajaani to be suspended by October 23 if Google does not comply with its guidance.
LVV's head of environment, Tommi Muilu, stated that work included tree and topsoil removal, construction of site roads, and changes to ditches. Google acknowledged falling short of its high standards and promised to follow the agency's guidance. Google also plans to plant trees across 130 hectares at Muhos as part of its landscaping and biodiversity initiatives.
Google's investment in Finland is expected to support 37,000 jobs and contribute €3.6bn annually to the country's economy.
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