Microsoft has set an ambitious goal to become a company with zero carbon dioxide emissions, zero waste, and a positive water balance by 2030. The progress and implementation of this goal can be found in the company's 2022 report. Additionally, Microsoft's customers can join in sustainable development efforts, for example through the use of their cloud services.
Previous Achievements
Microsoft's commitment to sustainability was adopted in 2020, with the primary objective of protecting ecosystems and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. What are the current results of these actions? According to the latest report, the following achievements have been made:
- Water balance: Contracts for 15.6 million cubic meters of water have been established, with a total of 35 million cubic meters from all resource replenishment projects. More than 850,000 individuals have gained access to clean water and sanitation facilities.
- Waste reduction: Reuse and recycling rates for equipment have reached 82%, approaching the target of 90% set for 2030. The use of plastic materials and disposable packaging has been reduced to just 3.3%, with complete elimination planned by 2025.
- Ecosystem protection: Microsoft has designated 12,000 acres of land for conservation, surpassing the 11,200 acres it uses for its operations. Moreover, Microsoft has committed to continually protecting more land than it utilizes.
Achieving these objectives is just one aspect of Microsoft's efforts to combat the climate crisis. The other two areas of focus are building AI-based solutions and creating tools for emissions measurement.
Microsoft Customers and Sustainable Development Initiatives
The company also aims to encourage its customers to take action towards sustainability. The declaration made two years ago serves as an incentive for participation in this initiative, transforming ideas into tangible results. In June 2022, Microsoft launched a cloud platform for sustainable development. This solution provides digital tools for emissions measurement and reduction. Azure platform users can now see the environmental impact of their activities. Microsoft has also developed a planetary computer, currently in the preview stage, utilizing artificial intelligence and geospatial data. Its purpose is to support customers in managing ecosystems and climate risks.
How Does the Cloud Impact Sustainable Development?
How do cloud-based solutions support efforts to address the climate crisis? Research commissioned by Microsoft in 2018 revealed that the cloud is between 22% to 93% more energy-efficient compared to in-house data centers. When considering renewable energy, it is also 72% to 98% more efficient in terms of CO2 emissions. New cloud data storage centers, such as the one opened in Poland this year, are designed to achieve LEED Gold certification, which is awarded as part of the world's largest program for certifying low-emission, environmentally friendly buildings. The Polish data center, for example, utilizes a blend of biofuels to power backup generators.
Microsoft's commitment to achieving climate neutrality encompasses various aspects, including water conservation, waste reduction, and ecosystem protection. Through their sustainable development initiatives and the use of cloud-based solutions, Microsoft aims to lead the way in mitigating the climate crisis while encouraging their customers to join in this important endeavor.
