Finland orders pause on Google AI data centres over environmental concerns
Google had called the data centres its biggest investment in Europe.
Finland has halted work on two Google data centre sites until mandatory environmental impact assessments are completed, following orders from the Finnish Supervisory Agency (LVV). Google had announced a €13 billion investment in digital infrastructure in Finland over the next two years to support its AI ambitions, calling it its largest European investment.
The LVV has demanded Google immediately suspend preparatory measures for the projects in Muhos and Kajaani by October 23, 2026, amid allegations that hundreds of hectares of forest were deforested without proper environmental assessments. The agency is investigating whether Google cleared forests in Muhos and Kajaani without the required assessments, and claims nature sites were logged and more than 300 hectares of forest removed.
Google has acknowledged its shortcomings, stating it will study the LVV's findings and follow their guidance. Google spokesman Sondre Ronander assured the company acted in good faith and had implemented environmental surveys and measures. Finland's Minister of the Environment and Climate, Sari Multala, said the projects will likely be delayed due to the environmental assessment issues, emphasizing that all companies operating in Finland must comply with the law.
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