Microsoft to Require Key Suppliers to Use 100% Carbon-Free Electricity as Supply Chain Emissions Jump

Microsoft has announced a new policy requiring some of its key suppliers to use 100% carbon-free electricity, as part of its efforts to reduce emissions across its value chain. The policy was unveiled alongside Microsoft’s 2024 Environmental Sustainability Report, which assesses the company’s progress towards its sustainability goals. While Microsoft is making headway in areas such as operational emissions, carbon removal, waste reduction, biodiversity improvement, and land protection, it is facing challenges in reducing Scope 3 emissions and achieving its water-related goals. Scope 3 emissions, which account for the majority of Microsoft’s emissions footprint, increased by over 30% in 2023 compared to 2020, primarily due to the construction of data centers. To address these challenges, Microsoft has initiated a company-wide effort to identify and implement measures to tackle Scope 3 emissions. The company has developed more than 80 significant measures, including the requirement for select high-volume suppliers to use 100% carbon-free electricity. Microsoft’s strategies also involve improving measurement, enhancing data center efficiency, forging partnerships to advance greener materials and fuels, leveraging its purchasing power to drive market demand for sustainable technologies, and advocating for climate-focused policy changes. Additionally, Microsoft is prioritizing water sustainability by reducing water use intensity, optimizing data centers for zero water consumption in cooling, engaging in water advocacy, and developing replenishment projects in water-stressed locations where it operates. Despite the challenges, Microsoft remains optimistic and committed to its sustainability goals. The company recognizes the global importance of climate change and acknowledges the collaborative efforts of its executives and employees in driving innovative steps to bridge critical gaps. Microsoft emphasizes the interconnectedness of the climate change issue and calls for collective success in addressing it. Resources: https://www.esgtoday.com/microsoft-to-require-key-suppliers-to-use-100-carbon-free-electricity-as-supply-chain-emissions-jump/