Google received illegal hundreds of thousands of trees for 2 data centers in Finland

Finnish authorities have halted the construction of two Google data centers due to illegal deforestation of 530 hectares, affecting hundreds of thousands of trees. Google admits to the actions but claims it acted in good faith. The Finnish Permit and Supervision Agency found that significant preparatory work was done without necessary permits, including tree cutting and road construction, prior to an environmental impact assessment. Google Finland's head acknowledged a lack of awareness regarding Finnish environmental laws. Environmentalists criticize Google's actions, noting that around 400,000 trees were cut down illegally. Finland is actively promoting new data centers, with plans for 145 new facilities across the country.