Back in 2020, Microsoft set an ambitious goal to become carbon negative by 2030. This means that by 2030, Microsoft aims to remove more carbon from the environment than it emits. Additionally, by 2050, Microsoft plans to remove all the carbon it has emitted either directly or through electrical consumption since the company was founded in 1975!
You can read their original blog from 2020 here: Microsoft will be carbon negative by 2030 – The Official Microsoft Blog where Microsoft President Brad Smith closed by saying “we have problems to solve and technologies that need to be invented. It’s time to get to work.”
The latest update on Microsoft’s goal to become carbon negative by 2030 includes several key developments:
Agreement with 1PointFive:
Microsoft has entered into an agreement to purchase 500,000 metric tons of direct air capture carbon removal credits from 1PointFive. This agreement is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to remove more carbon from the environment than it emits.
Progress on Sustainability Commitments:
Microsoft has made significant progress on its sustainability commitments. The company has seen an overall reduction in its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by about 17% year over year through the purchase of renewable energy. However, there has been a rise in Scope 3 emissions, which increased by about 23% year over year. Scope 3 emissions represent the total emissions across a company’s entire value chain and are the most challenging to control and reduce.
Operational Discipline and Data Tracking:
Microsoft has increased its focus on operational discipline and data tracking. The company has adapted the way it sets carbon targets and increased the frequency and scope of its internal reporting. This has brought greater transparency and informed decision-making across the company.
Supplier Code of Conduct:
Microsoft updated its Supplier Code of Conduct, requiring suppliers to report emissions. It now has data from over 87% of these suppliers. With the majority included in its carbon accounting reporting.
Overall, Microsoft is committed to its goal of becoming carbon negative by 2030 and is taking significant steps to achieve it. The success of this ambitious goal will depend on continuous effort, innovation, and collaboration with suppliers and customers.
Microsoft Cloud for Sustainability
Azure investments contribute to reducing energy use, a carbon-neutral grid, and a greener future. Microsoft invests in advanced projects for carbon, waste, water, and ecosystems.
Read more about Microsoft’s sustainability commitments here: Sustainability | Azure global infrastructure experience (microsoft.com)
The success of this ambitious goal will depend on continuous effort, innovation, and collaboration with suppliers and customers – that includes you and us!
If you’d like to talk to us about how to make your IT consumption more carbon efficient, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
