Microsoft's AI Push Raises Emissions by 30% Since 2020, Threatening 2030 Climate Goals

May 15, 2024, 09:47 PM

Microsoft's carbon emissions have surged by nearly 30% since 2020, putting its ambitious climate goals at risk. The increase is largely attributed to the company's rapid expansion of data centers to support its artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives, which require carbon-intensive steel, cement, and chips. Despite pledging to be carbon negative by 2030, the push to lead in AI has significantly contributed to higher emissions. Microsoft President Brad Smith discussed the new emissions numbers and the company's plans to reverse the trend.