Google and Microsoft are facing renewed criticism over the environmental impact of their expanding AI data center networks, with concerns ranging from forest clearance and emissions to water consumption and local pollution.

Google has reportedly been accused of clearing around 300 hectares of Finnish forest — an area roughly equivalent to 500 football fields — for a planned AI data center before an environmental-impact assessment had been completed.

Hanna Halmeenpää, chair of the Finnish Association for Nature Conservation, told AFP that satellite imagery showed areas of nature that were expected to be protected had also been cleared.

The development has drawn attention to the tension between technology companies’ sustainability commitments and the environmental demands of rapidly expanding AI infrastructure.

Microsoft Faces Criticism Over ‘Green’ Data Centers

Microsoft has faced a different form of criticism over efforts to integrate its data centers into surrounding environments through measures such as wetland restoration and landscaped gardens.

Adrian Shelley, Texas director of nonprofit Public Citizen, described Microsoft’s approach as “basically lipstick on a pig,” arguing that environmental landscaping does not address the broader impacts of the facilities.

Shelley also raised concerns about the energy sources being used to power some data centers, particularly nearby gas plants. Microsoft itself has reported that its emissions increased by 25% in 2025, primarily because of the expansion of its data center infrastructure.

The debate reflects a broader challenge for technology companies as AI drives unprecedented demand for computing infrastructure. Data centers require large amounts of electricity and water, while new facilities can also bring noise, emissions and changes to local land use.

Communities Push Back Against AI Expansion

Resistance is growing in communities where large data center projects are proposed.

In Taylor, Texas, resident Pamela Griffin is challenging plans to develop a data center on land near her home. Griffin argues that a 1999 deed designated the property for use as parkland and says that designation has not been respected.

Similar disputes are emerging elsewhere as residents question the environmental and community costs of converting land for AI infrastructure.

Noise pollution is another concern, particularly at facilities that rely on large power-generation equipment. Environmental groups and residents have also raised questions about water consumption in regions already facing shortages.

For technology companies, the challenge is increasingly extending beyond building enough computing capacity to support AI demand. They must also navigate growing scrutiny over where data centers are built, how they are powered and what their presence means for surrounding communities.

As Google, Microsoft and other major technology companies continue expanding their AI infrastructure, disputes over land, water, energy and emissions are likely to remain an important part of the data center debate.